PENNSYLVANIA, USA — The nation's blood supply is dropping to levels that haven't been seen in 20 years.
“The numbers alone used to be about 3.1 million people, and as recent as 2021 merely 2.1 million people are donating blood. It’s a significant shortfall,” said Laura Burke, executive director of the American Red Cross Central Pennsylvania Chapter.
Burke says the lack of donations could be attributed to colder temperatures. “This recent severe winter weather over the past two weeks has certainly caused us a setback, specifically in our ability to boost those critically low blood supply levels.”
The Red Cross reported several blood drive shutdowns due to severe weather earlier this year; winter weather has also affected donations being shipped to hospitals and other medical facilities.
However, The Red Cross has been offering a variety of incentives to help pump up the numbers.
“For the next three days, we are running a Super Bowl sweepstakes," Burke explained. "Those who donate have a chance to win a trip for two to the Super Bowl. Some can [also win] an Amazon gift card.”
Participants can even download the Blood Donor American Red Cross app on their smartphones, where they can sign up for local drives and track where their donation goes.
“I can see where my blood is on its journey from leaving the facility where I donated, to getting processed, getting screened and then to its hospital delivery. I’ll [even] know which hospital it goes to.” Burke said.
The Red Cross also launched an all-new blood donor rewards program; donors can earn points that can be redeemed for electronic gift cards or other Red Cross merchandise.
“We really do [our] best as the Red Cross to make sure that these incentives can be enjoyed by all who want to donate.” Burke expressed.
You can find upcoming blood drives in your area here.