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Blood Supply Continues to Get Pounded

Blood Supply Continues to Get Pounded

The American Red Cross Blood Services, New York-Penn Region is urgently calling for all eligible donors to give blood as soon as possible to help increase the regional blood supply to help avoid a potential blood shortage resulting from low donor turnout due to the bitter cold weather and snow that has hit the region. The severe cold and snow kept 373 donors from keeping their appointments in our region this past weekend. Since February 1, more than 4,205 units have gone uncollected due to severe weather conditions. This equates to 3 1/2 days of blood distribution.

The Red Cross is making a special call for all blood donors especially those with Type O Negative and Type O positive blood.
“The severe winter weather experienced throughout much of the country has reduced the nation’s blood supply to seriously low levels, including our area,” said Red Cross CEO, New York –Penn Region Kay Schwartz. “If you have an appointment to donate blood soon, please make every effort to keep that appointment. Lives depend on your commitment.”

All current eligible and new donors are urged to schedule and keep appointments to donate blood today by calling 1-800-GIVE LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visiting DonateBloodNow.org. Walk-ins are welcome. Anyone 17 years or older, weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health may be eligible to donate blood. In New York State, 16-year-olds may donate blood provided they bring an original signed New York State Informed Parental Permission for a 16-Year-Old to Donate Whole Blood to the blood drive.  Identification is required to donate blood.
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