The American Red Cross needs donors of all blood types. Local blood drives include:
- Sept. 8: Noon-6 p.m., Emily City Hall.
- Sept. 9: Noon-6 p.m., Crosslake Lutheran Church.
The Red Cross is concerned that the rise in COVID-19 cases due to the delta variant and a potentially active hurricane season may further challenge the ability to collect and meet hospital demand. In recent weeks, the Red Cross has seen blood donor turnout decline by nearly 10% while hospital demand continues to outpace donations.
This decline is believed to be due to multiple reasons, including the continued effects of the pandemic on blood drive cancellations and donor availability as well as back-to-school preparations for many families.
Donors may schedule an appointment to give blood or platelets by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.
Donors who give throughout September will receive a free haircut coupon by email from Sport Clips Haircuts.
