Community Corner

Blood Emergency in Greater DC, Virginia Red Cross

The American Red Cross blood supply is half what it was at this same time last year.

The American Red Cross issued an emergency call for blood donations June 25. The Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Region, which encompasses Northern Virginia, Maryland and Washington, D.C., hopes to collect nearly 9,000 units of red blood cells over the next two weeks.

The Red Cross has received 50,000 fewer donations in June than expected.

"Blood must be available at a moment’s notice when seconds count to help save or sustain a life. We have reached an emergency situation and the blood will not be there without the immediate response of volunteer blood donors,” said Donna M. Morrissey, director of communications for the American Red Cross Blood Services Northeast Division in a prepared statement.

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The Red Cross said the current shortage may be attributed to the earlier warm weather, which has people changing their routines and starting summer activities sooner.

To meet the demand, the Red Cross will hold emergency blood drives and extended hours at blood donation centers.

Find out what's happening in Viennawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

To find the nearest blood donation center to your home or office, the Red Cross offers a ZIP Code search on its website.

Here are a few of the Red Cross donation sites closest to Vienna:

Fairfax American Red Cross Site: Fairfax Blood Donation Center 2720 Prosperity Ave

YMCA Reston 12196 Sunset Hills Rd Reston, VA 20190

54th Masonic District Site: Sharon Masonic Temple 999 Balls Hill Rd

Check the Red Cross website for specific donation times available.


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