American Red Cross urges donations amid emergency blood shortage

By Ashley Luthans

Recent severe weather events across the U.S. have impacted the blood supply, and the American Red Cross is encouraging community members to give back.

Events like Hurricane Debby led to many blood drives being canceled.

Just in Missouri, there have been 37 blood drive cancellations so far this year.

Blood has a short shelf-life, and so the need is dire in order to help more people.

In order to thank donors, everyone who gives blood to the American Red Cross through Aug. 31 will receive a $20 gift card to Amazon via email. Those who donate Sept. 1-15 will receive a Red Cross raglan T-shirt while supplies last.

The American Red Cross will host a blood drive in St. Joseph from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 5 at the YMCA at 3601 N. Village Drive.