Nebraska Community Blood Bank urges donations, says summer shortage is worse than usual

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Nebraska Community Blood Bank issued an urgent call for blood donations Thursday ahead of Fourth of July weekend.

There is a critical blood shortage in Nebraska, the blood bank said, with collections trending 33% lower than what is needed to meet local hospital demand.

Blood donations often drop off during the summer due to school breaks, vacations and busy summer schedules, but the blood bank said this year’s decline is steeper than anticipated.

“Summer is always a difficult time for the blood supply, but this year has been exceptionally difficult, with blood collections even lower than typical,” Executive Director Cheryl Warholoski said in a press release. “You can help by donating, hosting a drive, or volunteering – and we’ve got a t-shirt or backpack waiting as a thank-you.”

For more information on eligibility guidelines or to make an appointment, visit the blood bank’s website.

In addition to the call for blood donations, the blood bank is asking schools, businesses, religious groups and community organizations to step up and host drives this summer.