The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage this summer, for only the second time in the 145-year history of the organization.
They issued an urgent request nationwide for donations on Monday, asking people, including Bay Area residents, to book appointments to donate blood soon.
All blood types are needed, especially type O blood, which is under limited distribution to hospitals because the nonprofit currently has less than a one-day supply on hand.
The Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood to hospitals and healthcare facilities for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses and traumatic injuries.
“If just three more donors gave at each blood drive this summer, we could help the blood supply rebound and ensure hospitals have the blood products they need throughout the remainder of the season,” said Paul Sullivan, a spokesperson for donor services at the Red Cross.
The Red Cross said thousands of people have donated since the emergency was announced earlier in July, but donations still aren’t keeping up with hospital demand.
Extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses are contributing to lower donor turnout this summer, according to the nonprofit.
There are many upcoming opportunities to donate blood across Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco and Santa Clara counties.
Appointments can be booked using the Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. As a thank you, donors who give blood by July 31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket. In August, the Red Cross will instead offer donors a $20 Amazon gift card.
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