Charlotte NC – Severe winter weather is compounding a winter blood shortage at the Red Cross. There is currently an emergency need for blood and platelet donors of all types. Once the roads are clear, eligible donors should consider making an appointment to donate.
33 blood drives have been forced to close throughout the Carolinas due to snow and icy roads. These conditions caused an estimated 1,200 donations to go uncollected. Overall, it was estimated that a total of 37,000 donations went uncollected due to weather conditions and hectic holiday schedules within the last month.
“The need for blood doesn’t pause for severe weather – it’s consistent,” said Red Cross communications director Nick Gehrig. “Right now, blood and platelet donations are being distributed to hospitals faster than it is coming in.”
Visit the Blood Donor App, redcrossblood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to find a blood donation opportunity and schedule an appointment.
