The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces dangerous levels of heat and people head out for final summer travel plans. Since July 1, the Red Cross national blood supply has fallen by more than 25 percent, and blood donors of all types, especially those with type O blood, are urged to give as soon as possible to help patients receive lifesaving medical care.
Heat impacted almost 100 blood drives in July in nearly every state where the Red Cross collects blood–compounding other seasonal obstacles to blood donation, such as travel and summer activities. Together, these factors contributed to a shortfall of more than 17,000 blood donations in July. At the same time, hospital demand for blood products remains strong. Blood products are being sent to hospitals faster than donations are coming in. Right now, type O inventory is so low, distributions of this vital blood type are reduced below what hospitals count on.
To make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit Red CrossBlood.org or call 1-800RED CROSS (1-800-7332767).
As a thank-you, those who give blood, platelets or plasma through August 31, 2024, will get a $20 Ama zon.com gift card by email. For details, visit Red CrossBlood.org/Help.
Upcoming Lucas County Blood Drives
•Tuesday, August 27, noon to 6 p.m., Hope Community Church, 5650 Starr Avenue, Oregon
•Wednesday, August 28, noon to 6 p.m., Whitehouse American Legion, 6910 South Providence, Whitehouse •Thursday, August 29, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., American Legion Riders, 5580 Centennial Road, Toledo
•Thursday, August 29, noon to 6 p.m., Church of St. Andrew United Methodist, 3620 Heatherdowns Boulevard, Toledo
•Friday, August 30, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Frederick Douglass Community Association, 1001 Indiana Avenue, Toledo
•Friday, August 30, noon to 5 p.m., Ottawa Hills High School, 2532 Evergreen, Toledo.
