Lee’s Summit Hosting Blood Drive to Help with Critical Shortage
The City of Lee’s Summit, in partnership with the Community Blood Center, will host a community blood drive on Nov. 23 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Gamber Community Center, 4 SE Independence Ave. The Community Blood Center is experiencing a critical blood shortage due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All participating donors will receive a free limited edition Kansas City Chiefs T-shirt.
COVID-19 has forced the cancellation of thousands of blood drives, leaving the current blood supply well below what is needed to meet the needs of local hospitals. The Community Blood Center says it needs more than 4,000 donations every week to treat patients in the Kansas City metropolitan area.
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.