American Red Cross declares emergency blood shortage, urges donors to give

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) – The American Red Cross is urging donors to give blood as it responds to an emergency blood shortage caused by a sharp decline in donations since the end of May.

The organization said the drop in donations has created a growing gap between the nation’s blood supply and patient needs, making every donation critical.

The Red Cross is encouraging people of all blood types to schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets as soon as possible.

As an incentive, anyone who donates between July 13 and July 31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket by email, valued at up to $15, including ticket price and fees.

Appointments can be scheduled through the American Red Cross. Additional information about the promotion is available at RedCrossBlood.org/July.

The Red Cross said maintaining an adequate blood supply is essential to ensuring hospitals have the blood products needed for patients facing emergencies, surgeries and ongoing medical treatments.