American Red Cross Seeks Blood Donors in South Georgia
ATLANTA, Ga. – The American Red Cross is making an urgent call for blood and platelet donors to book an appointment to give now, ensuring hospitals stay ready to help patients without delay. Every donation is critical to keeping the blood supply strong amid growing hurdles. Aside from summer travel and packed calendars, severe summer weather can also rapidly impact the ability to collect lifesaving blood products.
“South Georgians have a long history of stepping up when their neighbors need help, whether it’s after a storm, during a disaster or through blood donation. Right now, one of the simplest ways to help save lives is to schedule a blood donation appointment. Every donor plays an important role in ensuring local hospitals have the blood products they need to help save lives,” said Red Cross of Georgia Spokeswoman Allison Flexner.
Additionally, scheduled donations, which account for 90% of all Red Cross blood donations, have continued to drop sharply in recent weeks, highlighting just how essential it is to make and keep donation appointments all summer long.
Summer pressures rise
“Summer is one of the most challenging times of year for maintaining the blood supply. Across South Georgia, families are traveling, students are out of school and schedules are packed with vacations, ball tournaments and holiday celebrations. But hospital patients still need blood every day. We encourage eligible donors to take an hour to give now,” said Ms. Flexner.
Book a time to donate blood or platelets now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
“Summer weather can be unpredictable in South Georgia. Severe thunderstorms, possible hurricanes and extreme heat can all disrupt blood drives and impact donations with little notice. That’s why we need donors to act now. By giving blood before those challenges arise, donors help ensure patients won’t have to wait for critical care when every minute matters,” said Ms. Flexner.
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. 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.
