Red Cross Facing Historically Low Blood Supply

Patients relying on transfusions could face a delay in care due to a historically low blood supply, the Red Cross announced Tuesday.

The organization is encouraging donors to give from December 17 to January 2 by offering a long-sleeved Red Cross t-shirt while supplies last.

Busy schedules, breaks from school, and winter weather all contribute to a drop in blood donations during the holiday season, according to the Red Cross, which provides 40% of the country’s blood.

Here are a few local blood drives:

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Freeborn County

Albert Lea

12/28/2021: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., St. Theodore Catholic Church, 308 E Fountain St.

12/30/2021: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., North Bridge Mall, 132 Broadway Ave.

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Mower County

Austin

12/17/2021: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Mayo Clinic Health System, 1000 First Drive NW

12/20/2021: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., Hormel Nature Center, 1304 21st St. NE

12/23/2021: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Hormel Historical Home, 208 4th Ave. NW

12/30/2021: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Austin Utilities, 1908 14th St. NE

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