DALLAS — January is National Blood Donation Month.
The need for blood is urgent as the American Red Cross declared a critical blood shortage nationwide last week. The nonprofit cited several factors that have contributed to the decline in blood donors, including an increase in respiratory illnesses and changes in blood transfusion protocols at hospitals.
Texas-based Carter BloodCare says the winter season coupled with the recent arctic blast has impacted their supply.
"The arctic blast earlier this week has led to hundreds of units not getting collected, which impacts thousands of patients," the organization said in a statement.
They have launched their Winter Weather Heroes campaign. This means people who donate between Jan. 18 and Jan. 25 will be entered in a daily drawing for a $100 e-gift card. Also, through Feb. 29, donors will get a long-sleeve pullover, while supplies last.
“Someone in our area needs a blood donor hero every day, helping people injured in serious car accidents, kids fighting childhood cancer, organ transplant patients and so many others," said Andrea Sign, Carter BloodCare’s director of marketing, communications, and donor relations.
Carter BloodCare provides blood resources to more than 200 hospitals in 57 Texas counties. All blood types are needed, especially O positive, O negative and platelets.
Click here to find the nearest Carter BloodCare location and book an appointment.