Blood Drive sponsored by CTAA

The American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations to prevent another blood shortage as hospitals resume surgical procedures and patient treatments that were temporarily paused earlier this spring in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The demand blood has grown by 30% after a sharp decline in early spring amid this rapidly changing and complex public health crisis. However, blood drives continue to be canceled as businesses and community organizations remain closed. There is no known end to the current crisis, and Red Cross is committed to having blood available for patients in need.

Also, On June 15, the American Red Cross began testing all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. This test is authorized by the USDA may indicate if the donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to the coronavirus, regardless of whether they developed symptoms.  We hope testing for COVID-19 antibodies will provide our valued donors insight into whether they may have been exposed to this coronavirus. We recognize that individuals and public health organizations desire more information about COVID-19, and as an organization dedicated to helping others, the Red Cross is fortunate to be able to help during this pandemic.

The Red Cross encourages people to schedule appointments to help ensure social distancing and to help us anticipate staffing and supply needs. Please schedule your appointment on the app or at www.redcrossblood.org