Donors needed in July to prevent a blood shortage

Press release

GREAT FALLS - The American Red Cross continues to see a concerning trend - blood donations are being sent to hospitals faster than they are coming in. The Red Cross has collected about 50,000 fewer blood donations than needed over the last two months. Donors are asked to make an appointment to give blood now to avoid a looming blood shortage.

To help head off a more serious situation, the Red Cross is teaming up with Warner Bros. Discovery for the 35th anniversary of Shark Week and the theatrical release of "Meg 2: The Trench." The public is encouraged to celebrate a summer of sharks and help shore up the national blood supply by giving in July.   

In thanks for helping, the Red Cross is offering several incentives to donors who come out to give blood or platelets in the coming weeks. Additionally, in response to the great need for blood, those who hurry in to help by coming to give July 1-16 will receive a limited-time bonus $15 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice.

• July 12-Aug. 12: People who come to give will be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night New York getaway for two with a private shark dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium. Details are available at https://RedCrossBlood.org/Shark .

• July 17-31: Presenting donors will receive an officially licensed Shark Week T-shirt, while supplies last. Donors will also be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night New York getaway for two with a private shark dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium. Details are available at https://RedCrossBlood.org/Shark .

By scheduling and keeping appointments in July, donors can help provide for those in immediate need of lifesaving care. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, people can visit https://RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Upcoming blood donation opportunities July 24-31:

July 24, - Havre, 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., St Jude's Parish Center

July 25 - Chinook, noon to 6 p.m., Commercial Building at the fairgrounds

July 25 - Havre, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bullhook Community Health Center Jon Tester Conference Room.

July 26, Big Sandy, 12:45-6 p.m., Christ Lutheran Church

July 27, Fort Belknap, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fort Belknap Hospital

July 27, Havre, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Holiday Village Mall