Flooding and Severe Weather throughout Central United States Impacting Blood Supply: Blood Donors Needed

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American Red Cross urges eligible donors to give blood and platelets

June 13, 2008 – Severe weather and flooding are devastating many communities throughout the central United States and are also affecting the blood supply. Blood donations made through the American Red Cross are off 10-20 percent in many areas, causing Red Cross officials to urge eligible donors in unaffected regions to give blood to help ensure blood supplies are stable for patients locally and throughout the country.

Just as Red Cross volunteers from across the country have converged on disaster areas, blood donated through the American Red Cross can help save lives, wherever that may be. While local hospital needs are always met first, the American Red Cross can move blood products to storm-affected areas experiencing shortfalls if needed.

Eligible donors are encouraged to make a blood or platelet donation appointments within the next few days. Call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or go online to givebloodgivelife.org to make a blood donation appointment. A blood donor’s card, driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors need to be at least 17-years-old (16 with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form where state permits) and must weigh at least 110 pounds.

To help with ongoing disaster relief efforts or to register as Safe and Well, please call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcross.org.

About the American Red Cross
Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.

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