WSU Tri-Cities blood drive helps critical shortages after coronavirus cancellations

The Washington State University Tri-Cities campus hosted a blood drive on Friday because blood is needed across the country as concerns about slowing the spread of COVID-19 have led to thousands of drives being canceled.

Part of the problem is schools are closed.

“Twenty percent of the blood supply that is donated during the school year comes from high school and college students,” said American Red Cross Account Manager Shana Loomis.

But blood is still needed for many emergencies around the region. So, Red Cross officials are taking extra precautions for their staff and donors.

Information about blood drive dates, times and locations can all be found on redcrossblood.org or in the Tri-Cities area contact Loomis at shana.loomis@redcross.org.

“I just hope people know that when we say we have a need, it’s because we truly do,” Loomis said. “The effects of this are going to last weeks, if not months from now, so please just continue to give when you’re eligible.”