The American Red Cross is urging people to take action now to help offset the severe impact of recent winter storms on efforts to rebuild the blood supply during an ongoing blood shortage. Donors of all blood types are asked to make a blood or platelet donation appointment as soon as possible.
Nationwide, more than 500 blood drives have been canceled since the beginning of the year, causing more than 20,000 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected. In Western New York, nearly a dozen blood drives were affected with more than 275 blood product donations going uncollected. Due to blood product shortages, some hospitals have canceled elective procedures, according to Red Cross’s WNY Chapter.
To make an appointment to give blood or platelets, visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
Donors who give through Feb. 28 will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details.
Blood drives have been scheduled this month at these locations:
• Tuesday — 1 to 6 p.m. at The Dale Association, 33 Ontario St., Lockport
• Wednesday — 1 to 6 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Lewiston, 505 Cayuga St.
• Feb. 14 — 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 736 Cayuga Drive, Niagara Falls
• Feb. 16 — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Newfane Town Hall/Community Center, 2737 Main St.
• Feb. 17 — 1 to 6 p.m. at Adams Fire Company No. 1, 7113 Nash Road, North Tonawanda
• Feb. 25 — 1 to 6 p.m. at the South Lockport Volunteer Fire Co. hall, 5666 S. Transit Road