With most large-scale blood drive events being canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people who would otherwise have opportunities to donate blood haven’t had that opportunity.
Next week, residents of Danville and the surrounding area will have an opportunity to donate blood as State Senator Scott Bennett’s office partners with Community Blood Services of Illinois for a blood drive next Tuesday through Saturday.
Illinois hospitals reported a “critical” blood shortage in July. Bennett says people might not be as active during the pandemic, but the need for blood transfusions hasn’t changed.
“And, of course, all the other injuries and accidents that happen that require blood transfusions, that doesn’t change,” Bennett said. “That continues to be there. But a lot of people feel they’re busy in their lives and they aren’t donating like they normally are.”
The blood drive will be held next Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the Elks Donor Center at 300 E. Liberty Lane. Bennett says anyone is welcome to donate, but they have to register through his website in order to do so. They will also have to wear face masks inside the center when donating. Bennett says also with Community Blood Services, the donations will stay locally.
“People call me all the time and say, ‘What do I need to do to help? I keep hearing all these stories of people that are in trouble.’ This is a way that doesn’t cost anything, that’s safe. It’s a way for blood donations to stay in our community.”
Bennett’s office is also having a blood drive at Community Blood Services’ Urbana donation center at the same time. All presenting donors will receive a voucher for a $10 gift card.
