During National Preparedness Month in September, the American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood to help ensure a readily available blood supply for emergencies.
Whether blood is needed for a chronic condition such as sickle-cell disease, a routine surgery, traumatic accident or large-scale emergency, it’s the blood already on the shelves that helps save lives. Donors of all blood types are needed.
Donations decline around summer holidays like Labor Day. To thank those who come out to give Sept. 2-6, the Red Cross is providing a branded duffel bag, while supplies last.
To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors are encouraged to make appointments and complete the RapidPass online health history questionnaire at redcrossblood.org/rapidpass to help reduce wait times.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities include:
• 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sept 1 at Orient-Macksburg High School, 201 School St., in Orient
• 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sept 13 at First Christian Church, 201 W. Monroe St., in Mount Ayr.