SOUTHERN ILLINOIS -- The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage and urgently needs blood and platelet donors to give now to avoid delays in lifesaving medical care for patients.
The Harrisburg District Library is hosting blood drives on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 16-17. Hours are 1:30-6:30 p.m. Friday and 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Saturday.
In December, a blood drive will be held from 2-6:30 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 17 at First United Methodist Church, 109 E. Washington St., in Carrier Mills.
Another one will be from 2-6 p.m. on Dec. 19 at First Presbyterian Church, 34 W. Poplar St., in Harrisburg.
Volunteer blood drive hosts are also critically needed to prevent the shortage from worsening this winter.
During September and October, the Red Cross collected more than 21,000 fewer blood and platelet donations than what hospitals needed. Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, and platelet donors are urged to make an appointment to donate at RedCrossBlood.org or at (800) 733-2767.
Fewer blood drives in September and October coupled with hurricanes Michael and Florence, which caused thousands of blood and platelet donations to go uncollected, were key contributing factors to the current blood shortage.
"This time of year, as many give thanks for family, friends and good health, it's important to remember that patients across the country cannot survive without your generosity," said Cliff Numark, senior vice president, Red Cross Biomedical Services. "From traumas to ongoing cancer treatments, the need for blood doesn't stop for the holidays. People can give back -- and help those in need -- by making a lifesaving blood or platelet donation now and hosting a blood drive in the weeks to come."
An additional 4,300 blood drives nationally -- and about 80 additional drives in this area -- are needed in December, January and February to help stop the shortage from continuing throughout winter. Donations often decline during the winter holidays when many groups postpone blood drives while regular donors are busy with holiday activities and travel. Severe winter weather may also cause blood drive cancellations contributing to fewer donations than needed.
To encourage donations around the Thanksgiving holiday, those who come to donate blood or platelets with the Red Cross Nov. 21-24 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.
