American Red Cross looking for blood donations

RHINELANDER, Wis. (WJFW) – The American Red Cross is asking Americans to roll up their sleeves. The non-profit organization that provides about 40% of U.S. blood and blood components to hospitals is facing a shortage.

The Red Cross says supplying to hospitals and medical centers, is now far outpacing donations being made. Supply levels fell nearly 25%  since early August because of a drop in donations and back-to-back months of climate-driven disasters.

“It only takes a few minutes and you’re helping to save up to three lives for each donation,” said Kathryn Halvorson the Red Cross executive director of the North Central Chapter. “We keep hearing does it hurt to donate no a lot of people compare it to just a pinch and while it may just be a little bit of discomfort it’s really a selfless act that can go a long way in helping someone.” 

The red cross needs to collect about 10,000 blood products each day to meet patients’ needs. If you would like to schedule an appointment you can visit here.