A year ago, many things paused when COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic. But the need for blood never stopped. 

Nationally, the Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood and blood products in the country; however, we don’t operate blood collection centers in every market, including much of Florida. Here, we collaborate with community partners to help ensure the adequacy of the nation's blood supply.

In 2021 so far, we have hosted community partner OneBlood for bloodmobile drives at three of our campuses -- Orlando, St. Petersburg and Melbourne -- to allow our employees, volunteers, family and friends to personally donate.

"It’s rolling up your sleeve and making a difference," said Eric Corliss, Regional CEO, about the partnership. 

The need for blood is constant, and volunteer donations are essential for patients in the emergency room, fighting cancer or facing a life-threatening illness.

"We want to do our part to contribute -- it's a vital part of the lifesaving mission of our organization," Corliss added. 

Here are two easy ways people can help:

☑️ schedule a blood donation appointment near you at www.aabb.org
☑️ visit redcross.org/donate and make financial donation to support our blood program

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