COLORADO SPRINGS — Sunday, June 14 is World Blood Donor Day, a chance to highlight the volunteers and workers who help keep our blood banks stocked.
COVID-19 has led to blood shortages around the world. Blood drives have been canceled and social distancing measures limit mobility.
Vitalant, a non-profit community blood service provider, is also offering Coronavirus antibody tests for people interested in giving blood.
"Transfusions are happening every day, and they go on behind closed doors," said Liz Lambert, the Marketing Communications Director of Vitalant. "People are unaware and it's kind of like the electric company, where you don't think about the power until it goes out. With blood donations, that need has to be met before it arises," Lambert explained.
Vitalant's Colorado Springs center at Austin Bluffs and Academy is open 7 days a week. All blood types are needed to ensure a safe and ready supply at all times. Appointments are strongly recommended, but the staff will do our best to accommodate walk-ins.
Facebook is also expanding the blood donations feature on its platform to connect more people to their local hospital blood banks. Facebook users can register as blood donors, and alerts about blood needs among people nearby.
For more information on setting an appointment to donate blood, click here.
