BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) – There is a need for blood donors in the wake of increased surgeries at hospitals and a rising number of trauma cases.
The Red Cross first spoke about the severe blood shortage last month, saying the demand for blood from hospitals with trauma centers climbed by 10% in 2021, more than five times the growth of other places that provide transfusions.
It's been nearly a month since the Red Cross said there was a shortage and there is still a need for donors.
"For so long, people waited to go out to a restaurant or live event or festival," Amanda Farrell, Senior Director of Donor Recruitment at ConnectLife, said. "Now that everything's open, you can't blame people because that's at the top of their mind. Donating blood isn't top of mind."
While the urgent need for blood will motivate some to donate, Farrell said there is always a need since blood can only be stored for 42 days.
"The reality is we need people to donate regularly to make sure there is a steady supply of blood," she said. "It's not just a one-and-done."
ConnectLife has several donation centers, including West Seneca, Tonawanda, and Williamsville. They also have up to 5 mobile clinics each day.
Learn more about ConnectLife here
