Garretson, SD- Community Blood Bank has battled throughout the pandemic to maintain a strong blood supply for local patients in need. With a call for 500 units of blood each week to meet the needs of community patients, Community Blood Bank is running short of collections most days. Donations are being used at a record pace and many days usage is out pacing collections. Currently, there is a call for all blood types to come donate to help stabilize the local blood supply.
Garretson Fire Department and Community Blood Bank will partner up to host the community blood drive on Saturday, June 19 from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Garretson Fire Hall. Donors are encouraged to give blood to support the needs of local patients. To schedule an appointment donor can log onto www.cbblifeblood.org, click on “events” and select June 19 and “Garretson Community” from the calendar or call 605331-3222.
“The combination of summer and the pandemic is weighing heavy on the community’s blood supply,” says Ken Versteeg, Executive Director. “With a forecasted increase in travel as much as 60% and the pressures associated with the pandemic still limiting blood collection, we are asking donors to help fill our donation schedule at this blood drive event on June 19. The only way to gain any ground is for businesses and volunteers to step up to help. Through community support, we can save local lives together.”
Donors must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with a signed parent consent form), weigh 110 lbs or more and be in good general health. It is recommended that a person eat and drink plenty of fluids prior to donating blood. Please bring an ID with you at the time of donation.
Community Blood Bank is not affiliated with other blood bank organizations and takes pride in being a self-sufficient organization, thanks to the generosity of our local blood donors.
