American Red Cross Pleads With New Yorkers To Donate Amid Blood Emergency

The American Red Cross has recently declared an emergency blood shortage due to the high temperatures across the nation during the late summer season.

With over 100 blood drives in July alone affected in almost every state where American Red Cross drives are conducted, the organization is facing a significant shortfall in blood donations. Factors such as summer travel and activities have contributed to the decline in blood drive numbers.

According to the Red Cross, the July shortage amounted to over 19,000 blood donations, while the demand for blood and platelets in hospitals remains persistently high. The organization particularly raised concerns about the insufficient amounts of type "O" blood, which is crucial for patients in life-threatening situations, especially victims of accidents and traumatic injuries requiring emergency treatment.

Dr. Eric Gehrie, Executive Physician Director for the Red Cross, emphasized the importance of having an ample supply of type O positive and O negative blood to ensure hospitals are well-equipped to handle critical situations effectively. He stated, "Now is the time for donors of all blood types to give and ensure hospital shelves can be restocked before any impact to patient care."

To address this critical shortage, the American Red Cross is urging eligible donors to make an appointment to donate blood. Donors can schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, calling 1-800-733-2767, or visiting local donation locations.

Blood Drives in Binghamton

• August 10, 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at St. Francis Church, 1049 Chenango Street.
• August 23, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. at United Universalist Congregation of Binghamton, 183 Riverside Drive.
• August 30, 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. at Binghamton University Old Union, 511 West Drive, Union Hall in the Mandella Room.

Blood Drives in Endicott

• August 12, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. at the Church of the Holy Family, 3600 Phyllis Street.

Blood Drives in Johnson City

• August 16, 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. at Lourdes Health and Fitness, 491 Reynolds Road
• August 30, 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. at the American Red Cross, 365 Harry L Drive

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Blood Drives in Vestal

• August 17, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Vestal United Methodist Church, 328 Main Street.
• August 20, 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. at Grace Point Church, 3701 Vestal Road.
• August 29, Noon - 4:30 p.m. at Vestal Brookdale Senior Living, 421 Plaza Drive.
• August 29, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. at Elks Lodge, 2071 Vestal Parkway West.