American Red Cross Facing Severe Blood Shortage, Urges Donations

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - The American Red Cross says it is dealing with a severe blood shortage and is asking people across the region to consider donating blood.

According to Tara Lincoln, an account manager with the Red Cross, the shortage has been ongoing since mid-January and has created challenges in maintaining an adequate blood supply for hospitals and patients in need.

Lincoln says one of the main ways the Red Cross hopes to address the shortage is through local blood drives held in communities throughout the area.

Blood donations are used daily for emergency care, surgeries, cancer treatments, and patients with chronic illnesses. The Red Cross says continued community participation is critical to keeping hospital shelves stocked with lifesaving blood products.

To find upcoming blood drives in your area or to schedule a donation appointment, visit redcrossblood.org.