HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The American Red Cross continues to see a concerning trend, as blood donations are being sent to hospitals faster than they are coming in.
The Red Cross has collected about 50,000 fewer blood donations than needed over the last two months. Donors are asked to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now to avoid a looming blood shortage.
A blood drive is going on in Hutchinson August 4 at Park Place Christian Church at 2600 North Adams from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The drive continues August 7, 8 and 9 at First Presbyterian Church at 201 East Sherman. The August 7 hours are from noon to 6:30 p.m. August 8 the drive is from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and August 9, the drive will wrap up from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Donors will be served a meal each day, and delicious cinnamon rolls will be there on Aug. 9.
Right now, the Red Cross especially needs type O negative, type O positive and type B negative blood donors. Donors of all blood types can schedule an appointment to give by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor code HUTCHINSON.
The Red Cross is teaming up with Warner Bros. for the theatrical release of Meg 2: The Trench to celebrate a summer of sharks and help stave off a summer blood and platelet shortage. All who come to give through Aug. 12 will be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night New York getaway for two with a private shark dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium. Those who come to give throughout the month of August will also get a $10 e-gift card to a movie merchant of their choice. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Movie.
You can schedule your appointment today. Just call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), visit RedCrossBlood.org or use the Blood Donor App and enter sponsor code Hutchinson.
CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.