The American Red Cross reports they are facing a significant blood shortage as the coronavirus pandemic wanes.
The Red Cross provides blood products to hospitals responding to an “unusually high number of traumas and emergency visits, as well as overdoses and resulting transplants.”
Summer is traditionally a time when blood donations decline, this year is particularly challenging as many Americans receive their vaccinations and resume summer activities.
All those who donate between July 1-6 will receive a Red Cross embroidered hat by mail, and donors who come between July 7-31 will receive a $10 Amazon gift card by mail, plus a chance to win gas for a year.
Those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine can donate. All blood types, especially type O, are needed.
Bemidji
7/1/2021: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., Bemidji Fire Department, 312 Lake Ave. SE
7/2/2021: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., St. Philips Catholic Church, 702 Beltrami Ave. NW
Schedule an appointment to give blood now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.
