The American Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage as the number of trauma cases, organ transplants, and elective surgeries rise – and deplete the nation’s blood inventory.
Donors of all blood types – especially type O and those giving platelets – are urged to make an appointment to give as soon as possible to prevent further impact to patients. Right now, hospitals are responding to an atypically high number of traumas and emergency room visits, as well as overdoses and resulting transplants. In comparison to 2019, the Red Cross has seen demand from trauma centers climb by 10% in 2021− more than five times the growth of other facilities that provide blood transfusions.
There is a blood drive scheduled for Monday, June 21st at Shoreline Hometown Credit Union in Manitowoc from Noon to 4:00 PM. In Sheboygan, there is a drive being held at the Trades and Labor Hall from 10:00 to 3:00 PM, and in Green Bay, those who wish to donate can do so at St. Matthews Catholic Church. That drive will take place from 12:30 to 5:30 PM.
You can schedule your appointment 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.
