Red Cross urges blood donations as national blood crisis continues

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

PADUCAH, Ky. (KBSI) — The American Red Cross is urging people to donate blood or platelets as the nation continues to face a severe blood shortage.

The organization says the blood supply remains under significant pressure despite thousands of donors responding after the Red Cross declared only the second national blood crisis in its history in late July. Officials say just three additional donors at every blood drive could help stabilize the blood supply and ensure patients continue receiving lifesaving care.

The Red Cross says blood donations often decline during the late summer as families prepare for the school year and people take vacations, making August donations especially important.

As an incentive, anyone who donates blood or platelets between Aug. 1 and Aug. 31 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email.

Several blood drives are scheduled across western Kentucky and southern Illinois through the end of August, including events in Benton, Calvert City, Cunningham, Eddyville, Golconda, La Center, Madisonville, Marion, Mayfield, Morgantown, Murray, Paducah, Sedalia and Wingo. The Paducah Blood Donation Center is also accepting donations on multiple dates throughout the month.

Appointments can be made through the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.