Local community blood center joins nation in providing relief

The vast effects of Hurricane Harvey and its associated flooding are being felt across the country, including in our nation’s blood supply.

Community Blood Center of the Carolinas urges all eligible blood donors to make and keep appointments to give as soon as possible as they work to support patients in the Carolinas and those impacted by Harvey.

“Thanks to the generosity of our local donors, CBCC has already sent more than 500 blood products to the affected areas,” CBCC President and CEO Martin Grable said. “We will continue to send more as we are able. The need is great, and we expect it to continue for some period of time.”

AABB issued a statement that noted “blood drives in Southeast Texas have been canceled for multiple days, drastically impacting the region’s ability to collect the lifesaving blood products needed for their patients. Blood collection agencies across the country continue to make every effort to meet the emergency needs of patients and ensure a sufficient blood supply in storm-affected areas.”

Donors of all blood types are needed, but type O-positive donors are critically important right now. Their blood can be safely transfused to most patients and is frequently used in emergency situations. Visit CBCC’s website (http://www.cbcc.us/) to find a donation center or mobile drive near you.

About Community Blood Center of the Carolinas

The Community Blood Center of the Carolinas is the local nonprofit, community-based blood center and the primary blood supplier to the region’s hospitals. CBCC collects blood and blood products from volunteer donors in the community to return to the community at the lowest possible cost consistent with the highest possible standards. CBCC is a member of America’s Blood Centers, North America’s largest network of community-based, independent blood centers that provide more than 50 percent of the nation’s blood supply. For more information, visit http://www.cbcc.us/.

For more information on hosting a blood drive or donating blood in your area, visit www.cbcc.us or call 1-888-59-BLOOD.

Follow the Community Blood Center of the Carolinas on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/BloodCenter, on Instagram https://instagram.com/cbccarolinas/ and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/CBCCarolinas.