The American Red Cross needs your help. The company has issued an emergency request for blood and platelet donations.
Their supply of blood is dangerously low, most likely due to regular donors being on vacation. There's been 39,000 fewer donations than what's needed in the past few months.
"Right now, blood products are being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in, which is why we are making this emergency request for donations," said Nick Gehrig, communications director, Red Cross Blood Services. "Donations are urgently needed now to meet the needs of hospital patients in the coming days and weeks."
To donate, first you'll need to make an appointment. Use the free Blood Donor App, visit the Red Cross website, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.
If you're unable to donate yourself, encourage others to donate, make a financial donation to the Red Cross or sign up to volunteer.
"If you’ve thought about giving blood and helping to save lives, now is the time to do it," Gehrig said. "It’s the blood donations on the shelves that help save lives when an emergency occurs."
Visit the American Red Cross online to learn more about where you can donate.
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