As summer officially begins and people gather for holiday celebrations, the American Red Cross reminds communities that patients are counting now on the generosity of blood and platelet donors, especially around the Fourth of July.
The Red Cross sees about a 21% decline in blood and platelet donations during holiday weeks, including Independence Day. When blood donations drop, so does the blood supply, making it extremely challenging to ensure blood is available when hospitals need it.
To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
As a thank-you for helping, all those who come to give June 30-July 10 will receive a Red Cross recycled cotton tote bag, while supplies last.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities June 22-July 15:
June 29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sedalia Parks and Recreation, 1500 W. Third St. in Sedalia.
July 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Katy Trail Community Health Center, 821 Westwood Ave. in Sedalia.
July 1 from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. at American Legion, 733 E. Young St. in Warrensburg.
July 6 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Brian's Gym, 1020 Thompson Blvd. in Sedalia.
July 11 from 2 to 6 p.m. at Warrensburg Community Center, 415 Commander in Warrensburg.
July 12 from 2 to 6 p.m. at Springhill Mennonite Church, 35937 state Route E in Latham.
July 13 from 1 to 5 p.m. at Lamy's, 108 W. Pacific St. in Sedalia.
