SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) – This summer, the American Red Cross in Liverpool is urgently looking for more people to donate blood.
Since schools are closed and more people are traveling in the summertime, the Red Cross often loses potential donors that it would have throughout the year.
“That’s why it’s important for everybody to get out and donate not just in the summer, (but) all year long, so we can keep the blood supply there,” Red Cross Supervisor Alexis Radell said.
According to Radell, the Red Cross follows a specific set of criteria to determine if potential blood donors are eligible. These requirements include meeting a certain height and weight threshold, as well as fulfilling an established donation frequency.
Elizabeth Bishop, a local donor, believes there is always a blood shortage in the summertime and for that reason, it’s even more important for people to give.
“The need for blood and platelets never dips down… so it’s even more important to get out there and save lives,” Bishop said.
Bishop started donating after her brother was diagnosed with pediatric bone cancer. Even though he’s doing much better now, she still continues to donate to the Red Cross.
“They are a great organization that helps a lot of people in need,” Bishop said.
The Liverpool Red Cross is open seven days a week. Although the Red Cross usually looks for people with blood type O, platelets and other blood type donors are also welcomed.
