American Red Cross warns of national blood shortage, urges donors

The American Red Cross has declared an emergency blood shortage, reporting that the national blood supply fell nearly 25% in June. The shortfall is most acute for O‑positive and B‑negative blood types and for platelets, prompting urgent calls for donations to keep hospitals operating.

Red Cross officials said the shortage threatens emergency departments, operating rooms, labor and delivery units, and cancer treatment. Dr. Courtney Lawrence, the Red Cross medical director, warned that without a readily available supply, lifesaving treatments could be delayed. To encourage donors, the organization is offering incentives such as a free movie ticket from Fandango for donations made before July 31 and a $20 Amazon gift card for participants in a specific blood drive in Senoia, Georgia.

The Red Cross urges anyone able to donate, especially those with the critical blood types, to schedule an appointment at a nearby donation site as soon as possible.