American Red Cross declares National Blood Crisis

Posted on January 13, 2022
For people interested in donating, go to RedCrossBlood.org, type in your zip code, and search for the nearest available drive near you to schedule an appointment. (WJBC File Photo)

By Jake Fogal

BLOOMINGTON- The American Red Cross is calling for all volunteers to assist in it’s latest call for help. On Tuesday, the Red Cross announced that it is facing it’s worst blood shortage in more than a decade.

Lyn Hruska, Regional Chief Executive Director of the Red Cross is looking for healthy and eligible individuals to help pass the current blood shortage. She joined the Scott Miller Show on Wednesday, discussing the dire need for blood.

“We feel very comfortable at having a five day supply of blood on the shelves. Currently, we are sitting at less than a day supply on most blood types. The most needed blood currently are the O’s, O-Positive and O-Negative, but we need it all,” said Hruska.

Those interested in donating blood must abide by the Red Cross’ requirements of being 17 years of age, 16 with a parent’s permission. 110 pounds to have enough blood volume to share. Folks must also pass a health screening at the donation site, testing for healthy blood pressure and proper iron levels ahead of donating.

“Today the crisis is real and the only solution is us rolling up our sleeves to help those who need,” Hruska said.

The Red Cross is not looking to add more blood drives due to staffing shortages. For people interested in donating, go to RedCrossBlood.org, type in your zip code, and search for the nearest available drive near you to schedule an appointment or call (309) 662-0500.

Jake Fogal can be reached at [email protected].

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