Red Cross seeking blood and platelet donors surrounding 4th of July holiday

Holidays always coincide with significant declines in blood availability of hospital patients, and the American Red Cross is reminding Western Pennsylvanians that the upcoming Fourth of July holiday will be no different.

The nonprofit is asking Southwestern Pennsylvania residents for blood in platelet donations to combat an anticipated shortage.

According to a press release, the Red Cross sees about a 21% decline in blood and platelet donations during holiday weeks, including Independence Day.

“When blood donations drop, so does the blood supply, making it extremely challenging to ensure blood is available when hospitals need it,” reads a release.

The Red Cross requests that people schedule appointments to donate, and those who do so between June 30-July 10 will receive an exclusive Red Cross recycled cotton tote bag, while supplies last.

Donations can be completed at several locations throughout at the Pittsburgh region, including churches and community centers. The American Red Cross Pittsburgh chapter is located at 2801 Liberty Ave. in Pittsburgh’s Strip District.

Staff will continue to socially distance wherever possible at blood drives, and visitors can wear masks, but it isn’t required.

The Red Cross is also screening all blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American donors at these events to provide Black donors with an additional health insight about sickle cell disease. Donors can expect to receive sickle cell trait screening results, if applicable, within one to two weeks.

To schedule a donation appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).