CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Amid one of the worst blood shortages in over 10 years, the American Red Cross of Ohio is hosting several blood drive events throughout the southern counties to make up the difference. The blood drives will be taking place throughout the month of July and will be a part of their initiative called, “Camp Do Good.”
With the first drive taking place on July 2, there will be nine events in total, the organization said.
To help with the campaign, the Red Cross has incentives to increase the number of donors. For those who donate between June 30 to July 10, individuals will receive a recycled tote bag, while supplies last. Additionally, anyone who donates blood during the entire month of July will automatically be entered to receive a unique Shark Week package courtesy of the Discovery Channel. Finally, those who give blood, platelets, or plasma between July 21 and July 24 will also receive an exclusive Shark Week T-shirt, also courtesy of Discovery, while supplies last.
The blood drives will take place:
- Tuesday, July 12 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Unioto High School – Gymnasium.
- Wednesday, July 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Chillicothe VA Medical Center – Gymnasium.
- Wednesday, July 13 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Zane Trace High School – Gymnasium.
- Thursday, July 14 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church – Family Life Center.
- Friday, July 15 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Paint Valley High School – Cafeteria.
- Friday, July 22 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at South Central Ohio Chapter – Friedman Donor Room.
- Saturday, July 23 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints – 1918 N. Bridge Street.
According to the Red Cross earlier this year, during the Omicron surge of COVID-19, there began a nationwide blood shortage that eventually became the largest national blood shortage in over a decade, with a reported 10% decline.
To schedule an appointment for any of these drives, call 1-800-RED-CROSS or go to their website here.