Red Cross Month - Chinook Blood Drive March 3

March is Red Cross Month. According to the American Red Cross, “Red Cross Month began during World War II, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt called on individuals to address growing humanitarian needs. What started as a national call to action has become a community tradition - reaffirming the power of compassion and the impact we can make together.”

If you visit the American Red Cross official page, this message appears as soon as it opens: “The American Red Cross is facing a severe blood shortage as requests from hospitals exceed the available supply, drawing down the blood supply by about 35% over the past month. The shortage is especially serious for platelets and type O, A negative and B negative blood. Without immediate action, patients face serious risk. Your help is needed right now.”

Blood is crucial, and we need your help. We are asking all eligible donors to come forward and give at our upcoming blood drive on Tuesday, March 3, from noon to 6 p.m. at the Community Commercial Building, 300 Cleveland Road (fairgrounds) in Chinook. People of all blood types, especially those with type O negative blood and those donating platelets, are needed.

Remember, blood is a perishable product that can only come from donors like you. Please roll up your sleeve and give the gift of life. One donation can save up to three lives.

Any healthy person age 18 or older who weighs at least 110 pounds is eligible and encouraged to donate. Those ages 16 or 17 may donate with signed parental consent. Consent forms can be picked up at the Chinook High School office or at the registration table at the Commercial Building at the fairgrounds on the day of the drive. Valid identification is required for all blood donations. A driver’s license or school ID card are acceptable forms of identification.

Appointments are highly encouraged by the Red Cross but are not required. Walk-in donors are always welcome.