Blood Drive in Lee’s Summit to Help with Shortage
The City of Lee’s Summit, in collaboration with the Community Blood Center, is hosting a blood drive on May 3 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Gamber Community Center, 4 SE Independence Ave. The Community Blood Center recently announced an emergency blood shortage due to the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting blood drives.
The Community Blood Center says it needs nearly 600 donations each day to supply hospitals in the Kansas City metropolitan area. There is currently about a four-day supply of blood. While donations of all blood types are needed, the Community Blood Center says donors with type O and type B blood are in greater demand given the shortage.
Extra safety precautions are being taken at donation sites to prevent the spread of COVID-19. All donors are asked to wear a mask and temperatures will be checked at the door. A full list of safety protocols can be found at savealifenow.org/coronavirus.
Donors can register at savealifenow.org/group using the group code KCJN. There are certain requirements to donate blood. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 115 pounds and be in good overall health. Donors can be 16 years old with written consent from a parent or legal guardian. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a good meal prior to donating blood. Appointments are strongly recommended. Walk-ins will only be accepted as capacity allows.