If You Can Donate Blood NOW Is The Time To Do It

If you can give blood, the American Red Cross is asking you to donate now because of what they are calling a "severe" blood shortage.

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How much blood is needed?  The Red Cross says that to prevent delays in patient care, it needs 1,000 donations per day.

According to a story aired on WKBW-TV, hospitals nationwide are this Summer seeing unusually high numbers of trauma and emergency room visits.

All blood types, especially type O, are needed. Platelet donors are also needed.  According to the Red Cross, most people who are vaccinated for COVID-19 can donate but donor eligibility is, in part, determined by which company manufactured the vaccine.

Wondering if having the COVID vaccine will affect your ability to donate?

According to the Red Cross...

In most cases, those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine can donate. However, knowing the name of the vaccine manufacturer they received is important in determining your eligibility. It would be advisable to have your vaccination card with you at the time of the visit.

The Red Cross is offering incentives to donate blood. From now until July 31, donors will receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card via email and will be entered for a chance to win gas for a year (a $5,000 value), along with other incentives.

The actual donation only takes 8-10 minutes. A brief time afterward for refreshment and recovery as you enjoy a snack and a drink for 10-15 minutes before resuming your day. The entire process takes about an hour.

Here is a list of places where you can donate in Buffalo. In addition, you can find a complete list encompassing all of Western New York here.

July 27, 1 p.m. - 5 p.m., Cazenovia Neighborhood Library, 155 Cazenovia St

July 28, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Delta Air Lines, 4200 Genesee St.

July 28, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., WNY Chapter, 786 Delaware Ave

July 30, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Conversion Monster, 500 Seneca St

Before passing this request off, consider a friend, a neighbor, or a loved one that may be in urgent need of blood and how this nationwide shortage could affect them and you.