(Lincoln, NE) -- Amid the ongoing challenges of recruiting blood donors coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nebraska Community Blood Banks says it's facing a shortage of blood and platelet donations.
NCBB says the need for blood is constant and to replenish supplies for Nebraska hospitals, trauma centers, and air ambulance bases, more healthy donors are needed at blood drives and donor centers in the coming weeks. Appointments can be made online here or by calling 1-877-486-9414.
The organization says as a thank you, those donating through July 31st will be entered in for a daily chance to win $25 Casey’s Gift Cards. Plus, all donors who give blood between June 29th and July 10th will receive a limited edition “Saving Lives is a Breeze” T-Shirt.
More than 50% of the blood supply was lost when community blood drives were cancelled due to COVID-19 this year, and their supply remains low with less than a 3-day supply of all blood types on hand.
In general, you may be eligible to donate if you are:
- In good health
- 17 years or older— or 16 with written parental consent (PDF available on NCBB.ORG)
- At least 110 pounds
- Free of antibiotics for 24 hours, unless taken for preventative reasons
- Symptom-free for at least 72 hours following a cold or flu
Photo: Nebraska Community Blood Bank