FOR THE WAUSAU TIMES

APPLETON, Wis. (August 29, 2023) – The Community Blood Center (CBC) is strongly urging all community members to schedule a blood donation in the days to come as the blood supply is at a dangerously low level. Blood donation can begin at 16-years-old with parent or guardian permission. Encouraging friends and family to also schedule a donation in the coming days is critical. The upcoming Labor Day weekend brings additional concern as blood collection becomes more challenging during holidays. Healthy and eligible blood donors are asked to schedule a blood donation immediately at communityblood.org or call (800) 280-4102.

This urgent need comes after a summer of increased blood usage. Since July 4, red blood cell usage has been up over 14% compared to normal usage. While usage often increases in the summer months, blood donation often does not keep pace with the increased use. This makes maintaining a stable blood supply very challenging.

“We are asking community members to come together to help save lives,” said Kristine Belanger, Vice President, Operations and Chief Operating Officer, The Community Blood Center. “At the end of every blood donation is a patient who is relying on blood. It’s a powerful opportunity to make a potentially lifesaving impact in a person’s life, and it can only be done through the selfless generosity of a volunteer blood donor. We need all the lifesavers we can find right now to help our blood supply to get back to where it needs to be.”

CBC is also offering a special gift to all presenting donors until Friday, Sept. 8 as a small token of appreciation for donating.

Schedule a donation today at communityblood.org or call (800) 280-4102.