Local Blood Drives Planned To Help With Shortage

Winter storms and freezing temperatures have resulted in thousands of uncollected blood and platelet donations. Last week’s snow storm resulted in the cancellations of 265 blood drives on the east coast, which would have collected nearly 9,300 donations. The Red Cross says the need is constant and your contribution will help overcome the shortage. One pint of blood can save three lives. There is drive today in Altavista at the Lane Memorial United Methodist Church until 5 p.m. Lynchburg College, will host a drive between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday and on Friday at the Lynchburg Blood Donation Center on Tate Springs Road from noon to 6 p.m. To view other upcoming drives and to make an appointments visit: redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.