Northeastern Pennsylvania Blood Services Region Faces Shortage
News Release: August 10, 2007
Contact: Janice Osborne, Director-Communications and Marketing; American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley (610) 865-4400, ext. 262; pager (610) 508-4378

The American Red Cross is currently facing a shortage of blood and platelets, forcing the Red Cross to cut shipments of blood products to area hospitals. Eligible blood donors are urged to help replenish the blood supply by calling 1-800-GIVE LIFE.

“The American Red Cross is urging all who are eligible to please make an appointment to donate blood now,” said Tony Ferlenda, chief executive officer, Northeastern PA Blood Services. “We are currently being forced to cut shipments to our hospitals. All blood types are currently needed, as we currently have less than a one-day supply of blood.”

The summer poses many challenges in collecting blood as many people are away and schools are not in session. Despite this, blood supplies must be on-hand and readily available for patients each and every day. A sufficient blood supply rests on the generosity of volunteer donors.

Eligible donors are urged to help make up this shortfall. The American Red Cross holds blood drives seven days a week. To find out where to donate blood, members of the public are asked to call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit www.givelife.org. To donate blood through the American Red Cross, you must be at least 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in general good health. Positive ID is required at the time of donation.

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley is holding blood drives in Carbon County on the following days:

Monday, August 13, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at American Legion Post 314, 381 Bridge Street, Lehighton;

Thursday, August 16, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Jim Thorpe Memorial Hall, West 10th Street, Jim Thorpe; and

Thursday, August 23, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Palmerton Boro Hall, 455 Delaware Avenue, Palmerton.


(Please note: O-Positive inventory at only 56% of what it should be; A-Positive, 69%; O-Negative, 48% (universal, needed for emergencies); A-Negative, 69%; AB Negative, 43%.)

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley serves more than 680,000 residents of Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties. Last year the Red Cross provided health and safety education training; Lifeline, a personal response service for seniors; and emergency relief to more than 23,000 Greater Lehigh Valley residents. For more information about the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley or volunteer opportunities, call (610) 865-4400 or visit www.redcrosslv.org.