American Red Cross Declares National Blood Crisis

There is an immediate need for blood donations

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(Nationwide) - For only the second time in history, the American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis. 

According to the American Red Cross, blood donations have fallen to a four-year summer low. 

Donors are asked to act immediately to help save lives. All blood types are needed, but the situation is especially dire for type O blood as the Red Cross is now limiting distributions of these blood products to hospitals. 

The supply of type O positive blood has dropped below a one-day supply. 

You can help end the crisis and stabilize the blood supply by booking an appointment to give blood at Donate Blood, Platelets or Plasma. Give Life | Red Cross Blood or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). 

As a thank you, all who give blood by July 31 will receive a Fandango Movie Ticket. Those who donate August 1-31 will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email. 

“This summer has brought a number of unique challenges that have placed additional strain on our blood supply, creating growing concerns for hospitals and the patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of donor services for the Red Cross. “If just three more donors gave at each blood drive this summer, we could help the blood supply rebound and ensure hospitals have the blood products they need throughout the remainder of the season," reads a statement from the American Red Cross.

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