The Red Cross says a critical shortage of all blood types continues this summer, and eligible donors of all types are urgently needed.
Spokesperson for the New York-Penn Blood Services Region, Patty Corvaia, says a critical shortage in May and June led to an emergency call for donations.
"We were down about 61 thousand units for those two months, which is equivalent to a four day supply of collections. So that was obviously a huge concern for us because we always need blood on the shelves to save lives," she said.
Corvaia says after the emergency call for donors in July, donations increased, but blood products now are being distributed as fast as the donations are coming in.
"We still are getting blood in as fast as it goes out to hospitals. So still the need is great, we're still in a critical blood shortage. So we're urging all blood donors who are eligible to give to set up an appointment or if you see a community blood drive and want to stop in, we welcome walk ins. But really, we need anybody who's eligible to roll up their sleeves and donate now," she said.
To schedule an appointment, go to redcrossblood.org, or call 1-800 RED CROSS, or use the Blood Donor App.