American Red Cross urges blood and platelet donations amid severe weather and wildfires

CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL (Chambana Today) – The American Red Cross is urgently calling on donors to give blood and platelets as the ongoing severe winter weather and wildfires continue to strain the nation’s blood supply. As dangerous snowstorms, ice, and wildfires impact regions across the country, the Red Cross is facing hundreds of blood drive cancellations, leaving thousands of blood and platelet donations uncollected.

January has been particularly challenging, with over 12,000 missed donations nationwide due to the extreme weather conditions. In Illinois alone, 16 blood drives have been canceled since the beginning of the year, resulting in 478 uncollected blood donations. The Red Cross is concerned that more storms are forecast to hit the U.S., including areas that do not typically experience significant snowfall, potentially further disrupting the blood supply and the movement of blood products to hospitals.

“We’re in a critical time for the blood supply,” said spokesperson for the Red Cross. “With more winter storms and hazardous weather conditions expected, it’s vital that we continue to encourage donors, particularly those with type O negative blood and those willing to give platelets, to come forward.”

The Red Cross is particularly in need of type O negative blood donors, the universal blood type for emergencies, as well as platelet donors, who help patients undergoing treatments for cancer, leukemia, and other illnesses.

A Call to Action for Donors
The Red Cross urges eligible individuals to donate blood or platelets as soon as it is safe to do so. Donors can book an appointment to give through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

To encourage donations during this critical time, the Red Cross is offering exciting incentives. Anyone who donates between January 14 and January 26, 2025, will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. Additionally, donors who give blood between January 27 and February 28 will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice for helping meet the urgent need for blood.

For more information on how to donate or to find a local blood drive, visit RedCrossBlood.org or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Jan. 22-Feb. 15: