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Date: 6/21/2023
SPRINGFIELD — As summer begins, the American Red Cross is in need of blood donors.
Red Cross Communications Manager Jeff Hall said the shortfall in blood donations is being experienced across the nation.
“The need for blood is constant, with someone needing a blood transfusion in the [United States] every two seconds,” stated a press release from the Red Cross.
“Massachusetts always sees a drop off at the start of summer,” Hall shared. As people have plans and students return home from college, the donations lessen. “We run a lot of mobile blood donations” at colleges, he added.
Around Christmas — when plans pick back up — there tends to be another drop, Hall said. However, the shortfall is at its “prime” during the summer.
In May, a nationwide statistic showed that the Red Cross collected over 26,000 fewer blood donations than needed to meet the needs of patients. Hall noted that they are typically around 95% to 99% of what is needed in Massachusetts.
“We back other regions in need,” he said. “It’s not just a local issue.” For instance, if the state is doing well, that does not mean others are.
He went on to say that if people need a specific blood type that they have, the Red Cross will help those donation centers.
“We are always there to help,” shared Hall.
He continued, “Donations are appreciated, and the need is constant.”
During the slower months, Hall said they like to remind individuals about the demand for blood donations.
For the month of June, anyone who gives blood, platelets or plasma will receive a $10 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice. Donors will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a backyard theater package.
Hall said the Red Cross runs promotions every month. “There is always something,” he shared. “You are doing something good and you leave with a little swag.”
He explained that there are three different types of blood they are looking to collect: whole blood, platelets and plasma. Hall shared that donating whole blood takes about an hour, whereas platelets and plasma may take about 90 minutes as there is a different process in taking certain components from the blood.
Anyone looking to donate is encouraged to download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App. Hall said it is the easiest way to make an appointment and receive reminders.
For those who cannot access the app, they may visit redcrossblood.org. Here, there is information such as frequently asked questions, deferral lists and so on.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities through June 30 are listed below. All dates and times are for the Springfield Blood Donation Center, 150 Brookdale Dr.
Additional information on the Red Cross can be found at redcrossblood.org.