Blood donations needed as Red Cross reports severe shortage

[KSTP-TV News, June 24, 2021] With blood supplies running low and the Fourth of July typically a low period for blood donations, the Red Cross has put out the call for blood donors. 

Dr. Lauren Anthony, with Allina Health blood banks, said COVID-19 and its protocols forced changes at blood donation centers over the past year, resulting in fewer donations.

Now, as many delayed surgeries are being scheduled, more blood is needed.

"The need for blood is constant, we can’t stockpile it for months down the road, we're using it up every day," Anthony said.