Emery Wainscott
News Editor
[email protected]

 In response to the American Red Cross’s first-ever “Blood Crisis,” the Student Government Association hosted an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Tuesday, April 5, and Wednesday, April 6.

The American Red Cross is experiencing the lowest blood supply levels in more than a decade, according to the American Red Cross’s website.

All blood types are needed, especially Os, in order to replenish the blood supply.

 Since March 2020, there has been a 10% decline in blood donations, according to the American Red Cross’s website. Drives at college campuses and high schools have dropped 62% because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 Recruitment Representative for Biomedical Services Louis Zimmerman said mostly everyone will need to use the blood supply at some point in their lives.

 “Blood donations are necessary as blood cannot be artificially produced,” Zimmerman said. “It can only be collected through donations.”

 Zimmerman said 70 units were collected on the first day, making the drive a success.

 “[I] love the humanitarian mission,” Zimmerman said. “I enjoy assisting people in helping others.”

Even though the SGA’s Blood Drive was successful, the need for blood is constant.

 Appointments can be scheduled on the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS. 

To schedule online, visit RedCrossBlood.org.