The American Red Cross says its emergency response to Hurricane Florence have had an effect on blood supplies in our area, with the cancellation of blood drives. They’ve scheduled some blood collections that they hope will replenish their dwindling reserves.
The Red Cross estimates that about 5,200 blood and platelet donations went uncollected as a result of the cancellation of nearly 200 blood drives in the southeast. Blood was shifted from other regions to the hurricane-ravaged areas to meet emergency needs.
A blood drive was held yesterday at IUP, and there is one scheduled tomorrow at the Plumville fire hall from 1:30 to 7 PM. Other upcoming blood drives in Indiana County include next Tuesday from 1:30 t 6 PM at the Blairsville Community Center, and next Wednesday from noon to 6 at the HUB at IUP.
Appointments can be made by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Walk-ins are always welcome. The Red Cross is also encouraging financial donations.
