The American Red Cross celebrates its 140th anniversary today! ARC provides disaster relief, disaster preparedness education, and emergency services in the United States as well as internationally through its affiliation with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

The US is currently facing the worst blood shortage in decades. The Red Cross usually has 5 days worth of blood supply; in June 2020, the organization said its supply had been cut in half. At least a 3 day supply is needed to keep up with national demand. As of May 20th, 27% of blood centers in America were facing a 1 day supply or less and 17% had only 1-2 days worth. The pandemic forced an unprecedented amount of blood drive cancellations over the last year. When hospitals across the country opened back up for elective surgeries, the number of blood donations had yet to bounce back and the shortage was direly escalated. 

Laura McGuire, the regional communications manager for American Red Cross in the Wisconsin region, reminded the public that blood donations are especially important at this time. Not only is May Trauma Awareness Month, but it's around this time each year that blood centers see a slump in donations. During the summer months, people are going on vacations and spending their time outdoors, so signing up for blood donations and drives is on their mind less than colder months when there isn't as much going on. Accidents are also more likely to happen with people spending greater time outside. 

If you received your COVID-19 vaccine, you may be unsure if you're eligible to donate. The good news is you can! The only exceptions to donating right away are if you don't know which vaccine you got or you participated as part of a clinical trial not authorized in the US. If this applies to you then you will need to wait 2 weeks after your shot before donating. If you know the manufacturer of your vaccine and aren't presenting any symptoms of illness, you don't have to wait before making a blood donation. It is recommended that you bring your vaccination card with you to your next donation. Get more info on eligibility requirements here.

You can view a list of upcoming blood drives in Toledo here or search on the American Red Cross website. If you donate blood, platelets, or plasma before May 31st, you will be automatically entered to win a travel trailer that sleeps 5 as a giveaway sponsored by ARC and Suburban Propane.

interesting facts about the red cross

• The International Committee of the Red Cross has won the most Nobel Peace Prizes
• ARC has responded to 3 million disasters in the United States since 1881
• ARC started its campaign to teach families fire safety, escape plans, and smoke alarm installation nearly 6 years ago. Since then, nearly 900 lives have been saved during house fires
• Every 2 seconds someone in the US needs blood or platelets
• The Red Cross supplies nearly 40% of blood and blood components in the United States