STATE — While there has been a significant and encouraging response to the dire need for blood across the nation, the American Red Cross needs more people to give in the weeks ahead to recover from its worst blood shortage in more than a decade.
Those interested in helping are urged to schedule the earliest-available blood or platelet donation appointment in their area to help ensure accident victims rushed to the emergency room, those being treated for cancer, and others who count on blood product transfusions can receive lifesaving care without delay.
Since the Red Cross issued its first-ever blood crisis alert, severe winter weather has further complicated efforts to rebuild the blood supply. Hundreds of blood drives have been canceled across the country due to winter storms in January, forcing about 6,500 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected.
As February approaches, and the effects from the spread of the omicron variant and winter weather persist, people are urged to make an appointment now to give blood or platelets in the weeks ahead by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Those who come to give blood or platelets Feb. 1-28, 2022, will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card via email, thanks to Amazon.*
Employment and volunteer opportunities are available. During this challenging time, the Red Cross is also actively recruiting blood collection employees and blood drive volunteers who play vital roles in supporting the nation’s blood supply. The Red Cross encourages those interested to join us at a Red Cross hiring event on February 10, from noon to 6 p.m. at the American Red Cross Blood Donation Center, 524 Forest Avenue, Portland, Maine.
Based in Portland, Red Cross Mobile Phlebotomists help operate blood drives throughout the community. Applicants will need a valid driver’s license, a good driving record, proof of COVID-19 vaccination, and must be willing to travel to blood drives throughout Maine. No experience is necessary for entry-level positions.
The Red Cross provides a paid training program. We also offer health & dental benefits, 401K, paid time off – plus a $1,000 sign-on bonus. Those interested are reminded to bring a resume on the day of the event. Walk-ins are welcome. Masks are required. To learn more about being a phlebotomist, watch this short video: rdcrss.org/lifesavingrole.
Safety
Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including face masks for donors and staff, regardless of vaccination status – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive.
To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.
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