The American Red Cross declared an emergency blood and platelet shortage on July 13 after the nation's blood supply dropped 25% in June to critically low levels. While thousands of people have stepped up to help, the blood supply isn’t rebuilding fast enough to keep up with hospital demand and the situation has escalated.

Unfortunately, without more help, the Red Cross will have less than a 2-day supply of some of the most critical blood types, including type O+, readily available for patients in need. These blood supply challenges are being felt across the U.S. blood community as many blood collectors have also reported critical shortages this summer.

Donors are needed immediately to ensure hospitals have the blood they need for patients whose lives depend on transfusions.

To help patients in need this summer, the American Red Cross has partnered with local breweries, including Keg Grove Brewing Company, Casper Brewing Company, White Oak Brewing and Lil Beaver Brewery, for the Bloomington Breweries for Blood Drive.

We invite donors to roll up their sleeves and join us on Friday, July 31 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Bonaparte Room at the Chateau Hotel and Conference Center, 1621 Jumer Drive, Bloomington.

All presenting donors will receive a $15 gas card. Gift card is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. All presenting donors will also receive a Red Cross t-shirt, while supplies last.

Come give blood July 13-31 for a Fandango Movie Ticket by email (up to $15 ticket price and fees). Visit RedCrossBlood.org/July for details.

To make an appointment, click here, call 1-800-RED-CROSS, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App or visit RedCrossBlood.org and use code BREW.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.