For the first time in history, the American Red Cross has announced a national blood crisis. Many blood centers across the U.S. report less than one day’s supply of some blood types. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a decline in donor turnout, the cancellation of blood drives, and staffing challenges, which directly affects our nation’s blood supply.

According to the American Red Cross statistics, the United States needs blood every two seconds. Maintaining the blood supply to meet the needs for blood is a tough task because blood has a short shelf life, and shortages are a recurring problem. Blood is used in surgery, emergency medical treatment, and the treatment and management of several diseases. The need for blood, in other words, never stops.

All blood types are needed now as doctors across the country are forced to make difficult decisions about who receives blood transfusions and who will need to wait. Blood donations are essential to help patients survive surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. Each unit of blood donated can save up to three lives.

Please Join Us in Our Pledge to Save Lives

Why should you donate blood?

1. The simplest reason to donate blood is also the best: you can save someone else’s life when you donate blood.
2. It comes with a free mini-physical. Giving blood will provide you with an opportunity to be seen by a nurse who will take vital signs and provide basic information
about your health.
3. Blood donation takes under an hour.
4. Donating blood doesn’t cost a dime.
5. You get to lie down for 20 minutes or more and relax.
6. They give you snacks.
7. Someday, you or a loved one could be in a situation where you need a lifesaving unit of blood.