Red Cross blood donation levels fell to emergency lows in late June, prompting a nationwide response in July and early August. Nearly 15,000 donations above the average were given in July, cutting the shortage by 30 percent, Red Cross Communications Associate Jared Schultzman said.
While Red Cross officials have reported that levels are "slowly improving," more blood is still needed to ensure adequate supply through September.
"If at least three additional people give at each blood drive through the end of August – above what the Red Cross already expects to collect – there would be enough blood on the shelves to meet patient needs through the end of the summer," Schultzman said.
Local services like the Cascade Regional Blood Services (CRBS), which serves the greater Pierce County, also are facing similar issues with blood shortages.
“Cascade Regional Blood Services would like to thank the Gig Harbor community for all of your support during the summer months,” said Dan Schmitt, CRBS director of donor resources. “Summer is a difficult time for us to keep up with the needs of our area hospitals, including St. Anthony. Thanks to the dedication and response of our donors, CRBS maintained a safe inventory of blood products for our area hospitals throughout.”
According to CRBS spokesperson Rachel Young, the organization is the sole provider of blood and blood products to . It also serves Franciscan and Multicare Health System hospitals and clinics in Pierce and South King County.
The Cascade Regional Blood Services in Tacoma has three donation centers located through the greater Pierce County area. You can call to set up an appointment or walk in.
Where/When to give blood in Gig Harbor:
Bloodmobile every Monday at
11:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.
