The American Red Cross says historically low blood supply levels not seen in over a decade continue, and this is a time of year when donations typically drop. There are several Red Cross blood drives in Northwest Indiana this week, including Chesterton, Cedar Lake and Schererville today (Tuesday Dec 28), Portage, Merrillville, Griffith and Highland tomorrow (Dec 29), and Michigan City and Wheatfield on Thursday (Dec 30). Visit RedCrossBlood.org to make an appointment.
Holiday get-togethers, school breaks and winter weather often lead to lower donor turnout, potentially further compounding the situation. Potential donors are urged to schedule an appointment now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App or visiting RedCrossBlood.org . If there is not an immediate opportunity available to donate, donors are asked to make an appointment in the days and weeks ahead to ensure the Red Cross can replenish and then maintain a sufficient blood supply.
In thanks, all who come to give through January 2, 2022 will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. Those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma in January will automatically be entered for a chance to win a getaway to Super Bowl LVI in Los Angeles. As an extra thank-you from the Red Cross, those who come to donate in January will also be automatically entered to win a home theater package and a $500 e-gift card. Terms apply; visit RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl for more information.
The Red Cross says each of their blood drive and donation centers follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including face masks for donors and staff, regardless of vaccination status – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive.
