The American Red Cross is urging people to get out and donate blood following a holiday season that saw about 500 fewer volunteer-based blood drives take place than what is typically needed.
While all blood types are needed, the organization is in particular need of type O blood as it only has a three-day supply remaining.
The shortage is largely due to holiday travel causing a shortage in donors, which which leads to blood drives being postponed.
Kristi Ingalls, an American Red Cross Account Manager II, says while weather hasn’t necessarily been an issue in Kansas lately like it sometimes can be, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared.
For those interested in donating blood, there are several ways to register for blood drives.
Ingalls says one way is through the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
People can also register by calling 1-800-733-2767 or by visiting redcrossblood.org.
Although the thought of giving blood is enough to deter some people from donating, Ingalls says thinking about who will receive the blood can help.
Those interested in volunteering for the American Red Cross can visit redcross.org.
Upcoming blood drives
- Clay Center community
- Date: Jan. 10th – 8:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m.
- Location: National Guard Armory – 227 S. 12th St., Clay Center, KS 67432
- Manhattan community
- Date: Monday, Jan. 20th – 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Tuesday, Jan. 21st – 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Location: Pottorf Hall in Cico Park – 1710 Avery Ave., Manhattan, KS 66503
- Junction City community
- Date: Wednesday, Jan. 22nd – 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 23rd – 8 p.m. to 1 p.m.
- Location: Junction City Municipal Building – 700 N. Jefferson St., Junction City, KS 66441
- Aggieville
- Date: Friday, Jan. 31st – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: Rally House – 623 N. Manhattan Ave, Manhattan, KS 66502
For more information about upcoming blood drives, visit redcrossblood.org.
