SIU Homecoming Blood Drive to Help Nationwide Blood Shortage.

The American Red Cross is experiencing a national blood shortage but Salukis and community members can help.

The 14th annual SIU Homecoming Blood Drive is Wednesday, October 4th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Student Center Renaissance Room. This blood drive is one of the largest single-day blood drives in Carbondale and is expected to collect 175 lifesaving blood donations. Everyone who presents to donate blood will receive a Salukis in Paradise Homecoming Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.

Donors of all blood types are urgently needed. Walk-in donations are always welcome but donors are urged to download the Red Cross app to make an appointment for their convenience.

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and enter/mention sponsor code SIUCHOMECOMING, 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 must meet certain height and weight requirements.