Upcoming Red Cross Blood Drive In North Branford Area

NORTH BRANFORD, CT — The American Red Cross is urging people to donate blood soon due to a severe supply shortage.

Hospitals are experiencing a high number of emergency room visits for traumatic injuries. There are also more overdoses, which sometimes require organ transplants. Blood demand climbed 10 percent from 2019 levels at trauma centers, according to the Red Cross.

“When seconds count in emergency trauma situations, it’s the blood already on the shelves that can make the difference in lifesaving care,” said Dr. Baia Lasky, medical director with the Red Cross. “As many people begin to enjoy travel and time with loved ones again this summer, patients are relying on the generosity of donors to help ensure they have access to the treatment they need."

People who make a donation through the end of June will receive a $5 Amazon gift card courtesy of Amazon.

Below is the info for a Red Cross blood drive coming up in the North Branford area in the next few weeks. You can search for additional Red Cross blood drives from a wider area here.

• 6/17/2021: 12 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., St. Andrews Episcopal Church, 1382 Middletown Avenue (North Branford)

Editor's note: This list was automatically generated using data compiled by the American Red Cross. The local blood drives included in the list are limited to those at the time the Red Cross data was pulled. Please visit RedCrossBlood.org for the most current listing of drives. Please report any errors or other feedback to content@patch.com. Know of another blood drive coming up in your area? You can add it to the Patch calendar using this form.

People who have received a coronavirus vaccine can donate blood so long as they are symptom-free, feeling well and can provide the vaccine manufacturer's name, according to the American Red Cross. There is no waiting period after getting a vaccine dose.

All blood types are needed, especially type O, to refuel the country’s blood stockpile.

In most states, donors need to be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in generally good health; some states allow 16-year-olds to donate with parental consent. Donors 18 years old and younger need to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive. Appointments can be made via the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, online or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.