Organizers Remind Blood Donors of the Continued Need of Donations

Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024 -- 1:01 PM

(WBAY) Organizations who rely on blood donations are putting out the word that the upcoming month is typically a time when they run short.

According to WBAY, the Red Cross experiences a drop in donors twice a year, in December and July. It’s due to regular donors usually being too busy to give blood because of holiday celebrations.

And while supply may go down, demand stays the same, especially during natural disasters as hospitals rely on Red Cross reserves to stay stocked. The American Red Cross will accept walk-in donations but do encourage people to make an appointment.

All donors will receive a Red Cross umbrella, and there will be special picnic-style food and refreshments at the drives. To make an appointment, you can download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.