American Red Cross Facing Critical Blood Shortage this Summer - WTRF 7 News Sports Weather - Wheeling Steubenville

American Red Cross Facing Critical Blood Shortage this Summer

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WHEELING -

 

The American Red Cross is facing a critical loss in blood donations this summer and is asking for your help.

According to a representative with the American Red Cross, donations are the lowest they have been in 15 years.

They say there are a few factors contributing to that.

First, they say we had an early spring, which got people outside doing things and donating was a priority.

Then, they say the heat wave came, which forced people inside. 

The American Red Cross also credit's the severe storms that hit back in late June, which resulted in power outages for many across West Virginia.

Each summer, they also lose their High school and college donors, which account for a large percentage of their supply.

To find out how you can help, visit Redcrossblood.org or call 1 (800) red-cross to find blood drives in your location.