The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage as winter weather further impacts the ability to rebuild the blood supply. Individuals who may be eligible are urged to give blood and platelets as soon as it is safe for them to travel to help ensure lifesaving medical procedures are not delayed.

The national blood supply remains at critically low levels. The recent storm impacting half the U.S. population has canceled blood drives in nearly every state where the Red Cross collects blood. As a result, approximately 450 blood drives have been canceled, and more than 10,000 blood and platelet donations have gone uncollected in just the last three days, from Jan. 23-26, with more cancelations expected due to freezing temperatures throughout much of the country. This is on top of the more than 400 blood drives canceled last month due to severe weather.

There’s no time to wait — book an appointment to give blood or platelets now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). All who come to give Jan. 26-Feb. 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details.

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.