Despite many things shutting down amid the coronavirus pandemic, there is still a need to give blood.
The American Red Cross says there are severe shortages, to the point that more than 4,500 blood drives have been cancelled across the country, resulting in about 150,000 fewer donations. Two opportunties exist Monday and Tuesday at CiCo Park’s Pottorf Hall. For long time Manhattan donor Daryl Strouts, he’ll be donating for the 100th time and is giving back to encourage people to come out.
Healthy blood and platelet donors are asked to make an appointment to give now. Strouts says donating blood can help save lives, especially in a time of great need.
Strouts also explains what got him started giving blood years ago.
The Red Cross Blood Drive at Pottorf Hall is taking place noon to 6 p.m. Monday and 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.Tuesday. Appointments can be made via the Red Cross Blood Donor App, online at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-733-2767.
