SAFFORD — The American Red Cross announced it’s in week three of an emergency blood shortage, but there are local ways to help.
There are three area blood drives happening this month, with two occurring this week.
The GFWC Women’s Club of Safford is hosting a blood drive Thursday, Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. As of 1 p.m. Tuesday, there only five appointments remained open.
On Friday, Oct. 15, Safford High School will host a blood drive from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The City of Safford will host a blood drive at its Mesa Yard Office Complex, 405 W. Discovery Park Blvd., on Tuesday, Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Those who donate Oct. 11-31 will receive a link by e-mail to claim a $5 e-gift card, and a bonus $5 e-gift card, to a merchant of their choice.
Summer typically sees the lowest amount of donations, but this year, with COVID-19 rates still high, blood donor turnout decreased by an additional 10 percent, causing the emergency shortage of blood and platlets.
To schedule a donation time, go to RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor app.
