Blood Supplies At Dangerously Low Levels, Says American Red Cross

And as part of your holiday charitable giving this year, you might want to consider giving blood, plasma, or blood platelets.

The American Red Cross is experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade.

The dangerously low blood supply levels have forced some hospitals to defer patients from major surgery, including organ transplants.

Red Cross Bloodmobiles will be in our area this week and next week.

The Red Cross Blood Mobile will be at Royston First United Methodist Church Thursday, December 16 from 2p to 6p.

They will also be at Encounter Church on Collier Road in Toccoa Thursday from 2p to 7p.

The Red Cross Center in Athens is also taking appointments.

Additionally, if you have had COVID-19 and recovered you might want to consider giving blood to help someone who is currently hospitalized with the virus.

All Red Cross blood donations are being tested for COVID-19 antibodies.

Blood donations that test positive for COVID-19 antibodies could provide convalescent plasma for critically ill coronavirus patients.

If you give blood through this Thursday, the Red Cross will automatically enter your name for a chance to win a private screening of the epic new film The Matrix Resurrections for you and 50 of your closest friends.

You will also receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card* by email.

To make an appointment to give blood through the Red Cross you can go online to RedCrossblood.org and key in your zip code.

Then click on the location where you plan to give to schedule your appointment.