American Red Cross Urges Blood Donors to Step Up as Fall Shortages Worsen
FARGO, North Dakota — The American Red Cross is urging residents to donate blood as fall donation rates decline across the Dakotas and Minnesota, warning that hospitals rely on steady supplies even when headlines are quiet.
Seasonal Drop in Donations
According to Kimberly Vosseteig, director of the Red Cross Minnesota and Dakota Region, blood donations typically fall sharply in October as families adjust to busy school schedules and cooler weather.
“Donation rates always dip this time of year,” Vosseteig said. “People get into new routines, kids are back in school, and there’s less flexibility in people’s schedules. But the need for blood never stops.”
Officials say that upcoming school breaks and holiday plans often make scheduling donations even more difficult, creating shortages that can put patients at risk during accidents or medical emergencies.
Constant Demand for Life-Saving Blood
The Red Cross says hospitals use blood daily for trauma care, cancer treatment, and surgeries — and shortages can quickly become critical if disasters or mass casualty events occur.
“We never know when the need is going to arise,” Vosseteig added. “It could be a natural disaster, a major car crash — something that changes everything in seconds.”
Even when no large-scale emergency dominates headlines, doctors depend on a reliable blood supply for premature babies, transplant patients, and people undergoing chemotherapy.
How to Donate
Residents are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance to help stabilize the regional blood supply heading into winter. Donations typically take less than an hour and can save multiple lives.
To find a donation site or make an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
Vosseteig noted that “one donation can make a huge difference,” adding that every pint donated is tested, processed, and distributed to hospitals within days.
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