The American Red Cross is asking for the public's help after declaring an emergency blood shortage across the country. Blood donations dropped nearly 25 percent in June, creating a growing gap between the blood supply and patient needs.

 

The shortage is especially critical for platelet donations and blood types O positive and B negative. According to the Red Cross, hospitals are using about 3,500 more units of blood each week than expected during the busy summer trauma season.

 

Several blood drives are scheduled across southeast Kansas, including July 14 and 15 at First Baptist Church in Coffeyville, July 22 at Sun Graphics in Parsons, July 27 at Parsons State Hospital, and multiple drives in Chanute throughout July.

 

Those who donate between July 13 and July 31 will receive a Fandango movie ticket by email, while supplies last.

To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.