Severe blood shortage intensifies as snow, ice and extreme temperatures impact blood drives
The American Red Cross urges people to take action now to help offset the severe impact of recent winter storms on efforts to rebuild the blood supply during an ongoing blood shortage. Donors of all blood types are asked to make a blood donation appointment as soon as possible.
Over 500 blood drives have been canceled since the beginning of the year, causing more than 20,000 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected. In the Central Appalachia Region, 30 blood drives have been affected, with nearly 850 blood product donations going uncollected. In addition to the disruption of blood drives, dangerous weather conditions have also made it tougher to transport vital blood products, which could potentially affect deliveries to hospitals in some locations.
Local blood drives include:
• Monday, Feb. 23: Lewisburg United Methodist Church, 214 E. Washington Street, Lewisburg, 12 noon to 6 p.m. (Note: drive is currently full. Visit redcrossblood.org for more information.)
• Wednesday, Feb. 25: Clintonville Ruritan Club, 18918 Midland Trail W., Crawley, 1 to 6 p.m.
• Monday, Mar. 9: Lewisburg United Methodist Church, 214 E. Washington Street, Lewisburg, 12 noon to 6 p.m.
Patient care is at risk – donors in unaffected areas are asked to book an appointment to give blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Those in areas facing extreme winter weather are asked to give when it’s safe to do so. All who come to give Jan. 26 – Feb. 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
