Red Cross Issues Emergency Appeal for Blood Donors
The Los Angeles American Red Cross Blood Services has issued an emergency appeal for blood, citing a particular need for Type O donors.
Red Cross has only 8% of the optimal inventory of O-positive blood and 11% of the desired amount of O-negative blood. Blood supplies traditionally run short in the summer because school and job site blood campaigns are less effective, said Julie Juliusson, communication manager for American Red Cross Blood Services.
“We go out to many workplaces, colleges and high schools,” Juliusson said. “However, many schools are out of session during summer months and at work, many people are on vacation. That’s why we have to appeal to the community to come to us.”
Donors may call (800) GIVE-LIFE to arrange an appointment. Commuters are also encouraged to call the hotline to find a donation location near their work.
Donors must be 17 or older, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health and not at risk for HIV or AIDS.
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