Tomorrow is World Blood Donor Day, and L.A. Care Health Plan is hosting an American Red Cross blood drive to mark the day and to help address a critical need. Throughout the pandemic, the Red Cross has reported severe blood shortages, as social distancing and fear of COVID-19 infection forced cancellation of many blood drives. At one point, blood supply was at its lowest level in a decade.
The end of pandemic closures and most restrictions has not lowered the need for blood donations. In fact, donations traditionally decline in late spring and early summer, even though every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. The blood is needed for planned surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses and traumatic injuries. So, L.A. Care is encouraging all healthy people to give.
The Red Cross will follow strict safety protocols at the L.A. Care event, which will be held in a large conference room, to allow for social distancing. Masks are required for all volunteers and donors.
The American Red Cross will be at:
L.A. Care Health Plan
1055 West 7th Street, Los Angeles, Room 100
Tuesday, June 14
9:30 am to 3:30 pm.
Media welcome 10:00 am – Noon
All who give blood, platelets or plasma in June will receive a $5 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice from a wide variety of options, and will have a chance to win a VIP trip for two to Memphis and Graceland in honor of the new film Elvis.*
Sign up to donate here.