Local Red Cross urgently needs blood and platelet donations

CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Now is an important time to give blood and platelets. A seasonal decline in donations occurs from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day when donors get busy with family gatherings and travel.

In addition, severe winter weather can cause blood drive cancellations and negatively affect the blood supply.

Give the gift of life – make an appointment to donate blood and platelets by downloading the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

As a special thank-you for helping meet the urgent need, those who come to give Dec. 20 through Jan. 6 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Dec. 20-Jan. 15

Byrd Health Clinic, 7973 Strike Blvd. Fort Campbell, KY 42223

1/4/2019: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Bank of Dickson, 466 Highway 46 S. Dickson, TN   37055

12/31/2018: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Family Life Center, 713 W. College St. Dickson, TN 37055

1/2/2019: 2:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Dickson Cumberland Presbyterian, 500 Highway 70 E. Dickson, TN 37055

1/10/2019: 12:30 – 5:30 p.m.

American Red Cross, 1760 Madison St. Clarksville, TN 37043

1/2/2019: 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

1/4/2019: noon – 6 p.m.

1/7/2019: 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

1/14/2019: 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass^® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.