Blood donations urgently needed, supply historically low

(ABC 6 News) – Blood supply shortages are still prominent across the country right now, including in our area.

There are a lot of contributing factors to this low supply right now including the pandemic and this time of year is known for people not going out and donating blood because of the busy holiday season.

"We are all one huge national blood ecosystem and so it really does not matter who you donate with," Dr. Justin Juskewitch, Associate Medical Director at Mayo Clinic Blood Donor Center, said.

The American Red Cross is seeing the lowest blood supply levels in more than ten years.

"It is like the Christmas gift or the holiday gift that only you can give it doesn’t cost you a cent. You feel so good afterward," Melanie Tschida, Executive Director at the American Red Cross of the Southeast Minnesota chapter, said.

The Red Cross will be having a holiday blood drive at the Southeast Minnesota chapter location (305 Alliance Place NE) on Monday, Dec. 27 from noon to 6 p.m. This is the first blood drive at this location.

To donate, you can register here or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). In appreciation for sharing their good health during the holiday season, all who come to give will receive a Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. In addition, all first-time Red Cross blood donors will receive a $5 gift card from a local business.