Long Island, NY - November 20, 2014 - Severe winter weather in the Buffalo area has impacted blood and platelet collections. The American Red Cross is calling for all eligible blood and platelet donors not affected by the storm to make an appointment to give to help offset the weather-related shortfall in donations.

Approximately 30 Red Cross blood drives in the Buffalo area have been cancelled due to the extreme winter conditions. These american red cross PR, american cancellations have resulted in a shortfall of nearly 840 units of blood and platelet donations over the past several days. The New York-Penn region needs to collect over a thousand units of blood each day to supply hospitals around the state.

“It is the blood products already on the shelves that help save lives when severe weather hits,” said Kay E. Schwartz, CEO of the New York-Penn Region. “The need for blood does not get a snow day. Thanks to generous Red Cross blood and platelet donors, blood products were available for patients who still needed transfusions despite the weather.”

To help increase blood and platelet donations in the wake of the Buffalo storm, the Red Cross is asking eligible donors to consider creating virtual blood drives on a first-of-its-kind website called SleevesUp. SleevesUp allows donors to set up a campaign online and encourage colleagues, friends and families to pledge their support by making an appointment to give blood or platelets. It’s easy to start up a virtual campaign—go to redcrossblood.org/SleevesUp.

Platelet donors, as well as blood donors of all types, particularly O negative, A negative and B negative, are especially needed in the days and weeks ahead to offset the shortfall. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)

How To Donate Blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit the website or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.