American Red Cross Calls for Blood Donors

Submitted by: The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross is encouraged by a boost in donations since the organization issued an emergency appeal for blood donors. However, additional donations are needed to ensure an adequate supply is available through the end of the summer.

“We are humbled by the generosity of the many blood donors in the Bay Area who responded to our appeal, helping to save lives,” said Jeff Meyer, CEO of the Northern California Blood Services Region. “The Red Cross is so appreciative for each and every selfless act of giving. Our blood donors truly do this out of the goodness of their hearts.”

Across the country, nearly 15,000 donations have been given above expectations since the Red Cross first issued its appeal, cutting the blood donation deficit by approximately 30 percent to date. To keep up the momentum, the organization encourages anyone who has not yet given blood this summer to schedule an appointment and bring just two friends or family members along with them.

Although the number of blood donations has increased, the situation remains tenuous and more donors are needed in the coming weeks. If at least three additional people give at each blood drive through the end of August – above what the Red Cross already expects to collect – there would be enough blood on the shelves to meet patient needs through the end of the summer.

Donors of all blood types are needed, but eligible donors with blood type O negative, O positive, A negative or B negative are especially encouraged to give at this time. Anyone who gave blood at the start of summer may be eligible to donate again as summer comes to a close.

Upcoming Blood Donation Opportunities:

Community Church of Hayward

• Saturday, August 11, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• Social Hall, 26555 Gading Road, Hayward.
• Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or go to redcrossblood.org
• (Sponsor Code: CCHAYWARD) to schedule an appointment.

Fremont Police Department

• Friday, August 17, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• American Red Cross Bus, 2000 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont.
• Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or go to redcrossblood.org
• (Sponsor Code: FREMONTPOLICEVOLUNTEER) to schedule an appointment.

Girl Scouts of Northern California (Newark)

• Saturday, August 18, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
• American Red Cross Bus, Washington Township Medical Foundation, 6236 Thornton Ave., Newark.
• Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or go to redcrossblood.org
• (Sponsor Code: GIRLSCOUTSNEWARK) to schedule an appointment.

How to Donate Blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org 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 (16 with parental permission in some states), 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. 

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies more than 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at blog.redcross.org.

Web | redcrossblood.org
Facebook | facebook.com/RedCrossBlood
Twitter | twitter.com/ARCBloodNorCal

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