Red Cross issues call for blood and platelets, volunteers

                                                                                                                                                       
        The American Red Cross is stressing the continuing critical need for blood products to ensure patient care. Donors of all blood types are asked to give now to keep blood supply levels rising after a summer shortage. Type O blood donors and those giving platelets are especially needed.
        As National Preparedness Month continues, the Red Cross highlights the importance of having a strong supply of blood products already on hand for disasters and emergencies of all kinds and to meet the needs of patients every day.             To schedule a time to give blood or platelets, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.
        All who come to give Sept. 16-30 will get a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Fall.
        Save time by using RapidPass to complete 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.
        Volunteers needed
        Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience. 
        Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals. For more information and to apply for either position, contact neovolunteer@redcross.org or visit redcross.org/volunteertoday. 
        Upcoming blood donation opportunities include:
        • American Red Cross Toledo Blood Donation Center, 3510 Executive Parkway, Toledo – Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays: 7 a.m.-3 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays: 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
        • Lindsey: Sept. 16, 12 p.m.-6 p.m., Ole Zim’s Wagon Shed, 1375 S. SR 590.
        • Pemberville: Sept. 19, 12 p.m.-6 p.m., Pemberville American Legion, 405 E. Front St.
        • Walbridge: Sept. 25, 12-6 p.m., Mainstreet Church, 5465 Moline-Martin Rd.
        • Jerusalem Township: Sept. 27, 12-5 p.m., Jerusalem Township Fire Department, 9501 Jerusalem Rd.
        • Fremont: Sept. 27, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., YMCA of Sandusky County, 1000 North St.
        • Williston: Sept. 28, 8 a.m.-1 p.m., St. John Lutheran Church, 21140 W. Toledo.