Midwest Blood Drives Expand Partnerships, Urge Donations

Several organizations, including Girl Scout Troop 6095 in Wisconsin Rapids and the Hormel Historic Home, are partnering with the American Red Cross and local blood banks to host blood drives across the Midwest during National Wellness Month. Blood supplies typically run low in summer, prompting urgent appeals for donations, especially of types O negative, B negative, and A negative. Blood donations are vital for a range of recipients, including cancer patients, trauma victims, premature babies, and organ transplant recipients. To encourage participation, donors are offered free A1C screenings and, at some locations, $15 e-gift cards. Blood banks rely heavily on high school and college students, but urge all eligible donors to make appointments now to prevent shortages. The Red Cross emphasizes that donating blood supports both personal wellness and community health.