Since the American Red Cross announced a nationwide blood and platelet shortage a month ago, hundreds of donors throughout the country have pulled up their sleeves to assist restore the blood and platelet supply.
“As that generosity continues, the Red Cross is working around-the-clock to ensure patients have access to lifesaving transfusions and must collect 10,000 additional blood and platelet donations – above and beyond expectations – each week over the next month to adequately meet hospital needs,” Nicole Roschella, regional communications director of the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania, said in an email release. Donors of all blood types are encouraged to schedule an appointment as soon as possible, especially those with type O blood or supplying platelets.
“Don’t wait – patients are counting on critical care this fall. To make an appointment, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
“To encourage more blood and platelet donations, the Red Cross is offering new incentives to donors over the next month. All who come to give Oct. 21-Nov. 9 will receive a $10 gift card by email to a restaurant merchant of their choice to enjoy lunch on the Red Cross. They’ll also be automatically entered to win a $5,000 gift card. There will be three lucky winners – one chosen at random each week. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Lunch.”