INDIANAPOLIS — The American Red Cross is facing an emergency blood shortage as it experiences its lowest number of people giving blood in the last 20 years. Blood and platelet donations are needed now to help alleviate the shortage and ensure lifesaving medical procedures without delay.
Over the last 20 years, the number of people donating blood through the Red Cross has fallen about 40%. When fewer people donate, even small disruptions to blood donations can have a huge impact on the availability of blood products. Additional challenges lie ahead as winter weather and seasonal respiratory illnesses affect future donor turnout, compounding the situation.
The National Football League are partnering with the Red Cross this January. Those who come to give blood, platelets, or plasma in January will automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl for more information.
To make an appointment to give blood, visit the Web site or call 1-800-733-2767.
The Indiana Region Red Cross headquarters is located at 1510 N. Meridian St. You must make an appointment to donate.