PHOENIX — There is an urgent need for blood donations and volunteers after hurricanes Helene and Milton battered the Southeast.
More than 2,500 blood drives had to be cancelled because of hurricane season, the American Red Cross in Arizona said. The local Red Cross said the need for blood is constant and it’s amplified now after a devastating hurricane season. Hurricanes Helene and Milton are considered some of the worst in a century.
Donating blood takes less than an hour and starts with a quick health check. The Red Cross is inviting Arizonans to check their eligibility by making an appointment with them. That’s where they’ll run through a health screening to find out if you can donate.
American Red Cross Regional CEO, Edgar Olivo, said the Red Cross response is at a historic level following hurricanes Helene and Milton’s devastation.
“The need for blood is greater than ever," Olivo said. "This is an all hands on deck effort where we need anyone who is available to give the gift of time and life by donating blood. And also if you’re able to, also giving the gift of treasure and donate funding to disaster relief to support our mission.”
In addition to the need for blood donations, the Red Cross is also calling for Arizona volunteers. They’re hosting shelter academy training sessions. They are shelter simulations where volunteers learn what to do when they’re sent out on mission.
The Red Cross said more than 83,000 people are in more than 300 shelters in the Southeast. And they’re looking for Arizonans to help support these families who can’t go home because of the storms.
To learn more about donating blood, you can download the Red Cross Blood Donor app and make an appointment. You can also make an appointment for a future shelter academy online.
>> Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.