Assurance is calling on the Chattanooga region to make blood donations at a local donor center or bloodmobile because of the increased demand in the wake of Hurricane Harvey.
Harvey and flooding associated with the storm has had a major impact on the nation’s blood supply, according to a Blood Assurance news release. In response to the need for blood donations, nonprofit regional blood center Blood Assurance has sent and will continue sending blood supply to centers in Southeast Texas.
“Our hearts and prayers are with every person in Southeast Texas affected by Hurricane Harvey,” said Jay Baumgardner, executive director for marketing and community outreach. “Blood Assurance is humbled to be able to support those in need during this tragedy. There are many ways to help during this time, and donating blood is one of the best ways you can support the people of Texas. The need for blood donations is urgent, and we are asking members of our community to give whole blood donations today and in weeks to come.”
Officials are expecting rain in Houston through the week, and the need for blood donations and supplies will continue through the next weeks and months. Blood Assurance is requesting donations from all blood types, but particularly those with types O negative and O positive, according to the news release.