Back-to-back disasters have led to a series of blood drive cancellations across the country, which further strained the nation’s blood supply that was already dwindling from summer travel and back-to-school activities.
As the nation’s largest blood supplier, the American Red Cross is grateful for the millions of donors who rolled up a sleeve throughout the year for patients in need.
To further improve people’s health outcomes, the Red Cross has been working with community partners to introduce blood donation to a new and more diverse generation of blood donors — which is critical to ensuring that a reliable blood supply is available to the 1 in 7 hospital patients who need a lifesaving blood transfusion.
The need for blood is constant, which is why the Red Cross is asking the Outer Banks and Northeastern North Carolina community for their help in ensuring patients receive the lifesaving blood they need.
“This time of year is traditionally hard on the nation’s blood supply.” said Kristopher Dumschat, Regional Communications Manager for the American Red Cross. “Seasonal illness, winter weather and the upcoming holidays often lead to lower appointment numbers and decreased donor turnout, making it hard to keep up with the demand for blood products.”
Blood Donors are especially needed at the following blood drives:
- December 13, 2023 – Corolla Fire and Rescue, Pine Island Station from 9:30am-2:30pm
- December 27, 2023 – Pitts Center, Southern Shores from 9:30am-2:30pm
Those who come to come to give blood Dec. 1-17 with the Red Cross, will get a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email as a thank you! Additionally, those who give blood or platelets Dec. 18-Jan. 5 will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. Visit RedCrossBlood.org for details.
To schedule an appointment to donate blood at one of the drives above, or to find a local blood drive near you, visit RedCrossBlood.org; Download the free Red Cross Blood Donor App; or call 1(800) RED CROSS.
