American Red Cross tackles nationwide blood shortage with drives in Asheville

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — The American Red Cross is trying to make up a nationwide blood shortage one donor at a time.

The agency was set up Monday at AmeriHealth on Asheland Avenue in Asheville. It’s trying to catch up on supplies before people get too busy during the upcoming holiday season.

There had been a shortage of donations in part because people may not think about it unless they’re asked. But the need remains critical year-round.

“In the United States, every two seconds, blood is needed. Blood is to save a life. And with summertime travels and the recent hurricanes that have happened in the southern states, there’s been an increased need for blood. There’s been a 25 percent decrease in our inventories,” American Red Cross’ Aaron Wright said.

The American Red Cross has scheduled another blood drive for 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Tuesday at Pack Memorial Library. All participants get a Halloween blood donor T-shirt.