Red Cross blood donation levels fell to emergency lows in late June, prompting a nationwide response in July and early August. Nearly 15,000 donations above the average were given in July, cutting the shortage by 30 percent, Red Cross Communications Associate Jared Schultzman said.
While Red Cross officials have reported that levels are "slowly improving," more blood is still needed to ensure adequate supply through September.
"If at least three additional people give at each blood drive through the end of August – above what the Red Cross already expects to collect – there would be enough blood on the shelves to meet patient needs through the end of the summer," Schultzman said.
There are 3 Red Cross blood drives between now and the end of the week in Santa Cruz County. For any blood drive, if you wish to make an appointment, call 1-800-733-2767 or go to redcrossblood.org and enter the city-specific sponsor code listed below. See times and dates below.
Santa Cruz Community
Wednesday, August 15, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gymnasium, 220 Elk St., Santa
Cruz.
(Sponsor Code: SANTA) to schedule an appointment.
Entrance to parking lot is off Pacheco Avenue.
Felton Community
Friday, August 17, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church, Taylor Hall, 6090 Highway 9, Felton.
(Sponsor Code: FELTON) to schedule an appointment.
Capitola: St. Joseph’s Catholic Community
Saturday, August 18, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Church Hall, 435 Monterey Ave., Capitola.
(Sponsor Code: STJOSCAP) to schedule an appointment.
