The American Red Cross is experiencing a national blood shortage. Back-to-school season, summer travel and an already active hurricane season have hindered blood donations, resulting in a shortfall of about 30,000 blood donations in August alone. Right now, blood product distributions to hospitals are outpacing the number of blood donations coming in. The Red Cross is working with hospitals around the clock to meet the blood needs of patients – but can’t do it alone. They need your help!

Blood shortages can affect people with all needs for blood. September is Sickle Cell Awareness and Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month, both of which require significant support from blood donors to ensure the blood products needed are readily available.

CALS is hosting a fall blood drive on Oct. 25. To sign-up to donate blood, go here and type in UWCALS, or use the direct link.  The drive will take place in room 6201 in the Microbial Sciences Building from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Catch a great view of campus while donating!

There are also promotions going on at the time of the blood drive. Give October 21 through November 9 for a $10 e-gift card to a restaurant merchant of your choice, plus a chance to win a $5,000 prize. See rcblood.org/lunch. Also, all presenting donors will receive a Red Cross t-shirt, while supplies last.

Eligibility questions? Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org.

Interested in a Power Red appointment? Here is some information: Eligible donors with types O, B negative or A negative blood are encouraged to make a Power Red donation at this blood drive.

• Power Red donors give a concentrated dose of red blood cells during a single donation, allowing them to maximize their impact.
  • During this type of donation, red blood cells are separated from other blood components, and the plasma and platelets are safely and comfortably returned to the donor.

Information for this article is taken from Red Cross emails and promotional materials.