Red Cross encourages donations
The American Red Cross is facing a critical blood shortage and is issuing an emergency call for eligible blood and platelet donors of all blood types to give now and help save lives.
One opportunity to give blood is upcoming in Franklin County.
Blood donations have fallen short of expectations for the past two months, resulting in about 61,000 fewer donations than needed and causing a significant draw down of the Red Cross blood supply. The shortfall is the equivalent of the Red Cross not collecting any blood donations for more than four days.
Locally a blood drive will be held July 20 from 1-6 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Russellville, located at 213 N. Jackson Ave.
Overall, the Red Cross reported, the summer months are among the most challenging times of the year for blood and platelet donations, as regular donors delay giving while they vacation and participate in summer activities.
To schedule an appointment, use the free Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.
