VOLGA — Community Blood Bank is calling on residents of Volga and the surrounding area to donate blood following a critical drop in supply levels. The shortage, driven by a series of traumatic medical emergencies in the past week, has strained blood levels, and created an immediate need for donations of all blood types.
A community blood drive will be March 30 at Sioux Valley High School, 200 Hansina Ave., from 8 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Residents are encouraged to attend and donate. Every pint of blood donated can save up to three lives and, right now, those lives depend on the generosity of the community.
“We are facing an unexpected blood shortage that we hope the community will help address. The need to keep blood supplies strong allows medical professionals to serve patients who are being treated for serious medical conditions,” said Ken Versteeg, executive director of Community Blood Bank. “We are asking the Volga community, our neighbors, our friends, to come out on March 30 and help us restore our supply to safe and stable levels. One donation takes 30 minutes and can make all the difference.”
The blood bank reported that multiple trauma situations occurring within the last seven days have rapidly depleted reserves that were previously at acceptable levels. Forty-three medical facilities rely on Community Blood Bank for blood products. Blood is used in the treatment of surgical procedures, emergency transfusions, and addressing patients with chronic conditions.
All blood types are needed, with an especially urgent need for O-negative and O-positive donors. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in good general health. Donors are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids and eat a nutritious meal before giving blood.
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