The Western New York Chapter of the American Red Cross says there is a critical need for blood donations, especially from diverse communities. 


What You Need To Know

  • Blood Banks seeing fewer donors since coronavius outbreak
  • Red Cross seeking blood donations from Black and Brown communities to assist sickle cell patients
  • Red Cross says the need for blood is constant

Red Cross Regional Communications Director Jay Bonafede says there has been a sharp decline in blood donations since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak. The Red Cross has begun an awareness campaign to encourage people from all backgrounds, including African Americans, to give blood.

According to the New York Blood Center there is a greater prevalence of the Type O blood in Black and Brown communities, which can treat a broader cross-section of patients.

"Right now there is an urgent need for a diverse population to donate due to sickle cell anemia," said Bonafede.

Sickle cell disease causes the body to produce abnormally shaped (or sickled) red blood cells. The illness can interfere with blood flow, causing patients severe bodily pain.

According to the CDC, the illness is mostly found in people who are of African and Hispanic descent — which is why there’s a strong sense of urgency to get closely matched blood products for those with conditions that require blood transfusions from time to time.

For those looking to donate, click here to find a blood drive to schedule a time and donate.