Red Cross Urges for Summer Time Blood Donations

ZANESVILLE, OH – The Red Cross is in critical need of blood and platelet donations.

Don Hawkins, the Regional Communications Manager with the American Red Cross Central and Southern Region, says they aren’t in a blood shortage yet this summer but are doing everything they can to prevent a shortage.

“The need for blood is constant, so that need is consistent year round, it’s basically a flat line.” Hawkins said. “We always know that need is always going to be there, so it’s the fact that the amount of people who make the time to donate in the summer drop off. Which makes it look a little more hectic and a little more necessary for folks to come out and donate.”

Hawkins says it’s easy to forget to schedule an appointment to donate blood with all the hustle and bustle of summer.

He says if you do choose to donate, you could be helping to save a life.

“You should be thinking about giving blood or actively making your appointment to go give blood, if you want to make an impact in the community.” Hawkins said. “Your blood will help someone who needs it, the blood goes where it’s needed and throughout the summer people have treatments that require blood transfusions. Those treatments can’t wait, you don’t want to end up in a situation where you need regularly scheduled treatment or emergency treatment and there’s not blood there.”

Hawkins says there is an incentive for those who donate blood this month.

For anyone who donates blood or platelets from now until July 31st will receive tickets to a movie of your choice, via email.

If you are interested in donating blood you can head to the Red Cross’ website to schedule an appointment.