The bloodmobile will roll into town July 29 at the Playland Ballroom. The times for the summer drive will be a bit different in hopes of catching a few more donors at the day’s end. The hours will be 1-7 p.m. at the air conditioned Playland Ballroom. St. Cloud Times readers may have seen that area blood donations are low and have raised concern for the American Red Cross. In some areas, blood supplies are down to a one or two day supply. Typically, donations are down in the summer because of vacation time, hot weather and travel. The Times noted that there is a nation wide trend of decreased giving to nonprofit and charitable organizations. If we were to have a major catastrophe, we have to wonder if there will be enough blood to cover it. Our volunteer callers are busy connecting with people to set up appointment times. Appointments help with the even donor flow, but we always welcome walk-ins. If we miss calling you, feel free to come and donate because the life you save could be someone you know and love. Remember to stop in July 29. We need new and loyal donors. Make a difference by giving an hour of your time and a unit of blood. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good general health. Something new this year is that cancer survivors of five years or more, who may have had chemotherapy may donate again. Also of note is that as of July 1, blood donors will have their health history asked by a trained member of the collection staff. Donors will no longer have the option of answering health questions using a self-administered health history. Please come donate blood July 29 at the Playland Ballroom. If you have further questions feel free to call Audrey at (320) 398-5381 or Trish at (320) 398-6345. Give a gift from your heart, the gift of blood.
