U.P. Regional Blood Center experiencing critical need for all blood types

MARQUETTE — The U.P. is currently experiencing a critical need for all blood types. The Upper Peninsula Regional Blood Center is asking people to make time to donate, especially during this challenging time.

Many blood drives scheduled for this month have been cancelled due to all the coronavirus closings. According to Blood Collection Coordinator Rachel Heath, the Regional Blood Center is losing hundreds of pints they would have otherwise received.

With so many people in need of blood, all healthy individuals who are able to donate are asked to consider giving blood during this critical shortage.

“The illness is kind of scaring people off to donate, but we’re encouraging all healthy, eligible donors to come in and donate at any of our clinics,” said Heath. “The illness is a big concern. That’s why we need to stock up on blood and make sure we have enough in supply for all the hospitals across the U.P. It’s really important that we get out and donate blood to help your community and support your local blood center.”

As an extra incentive to encourage people to get out and give blood, anyone who donates between March 16th and 27th will be entered to win one of four 50 dollar Amazon gift cards.

Donors are asked to be on the lookout for rescheduled blood drives, and walk-ins are always welcome at your local Blood Donor Center. All Blood Donor Center locations can be found on the U.P. Regional Blood Center website. A list of upcoming blood drives and more information can be found on the Regional Blood Center Facebook page.