Red Cross Reports Blood Shortage: Where to Donate Blood in Waltham

WALTHAM, MA — Since issuing an emergency request in early July for blood and platelet donation, the American Red Cross says a critical blood shortage remains and that more donors are needed.

As it is, according to a release, the Red Cross has less than a five-day blood supply.

“The Red Cross continues to have an emergency need for blood and platelet donors to give now and help save patient lives,” said Alyson Barraza, Communications Manager for the Massachusetts Blood Services Region in a release. “We are grateful for those who have already stepped up this summer to give and want to remind those who are eligible that hospital patients are still counting on them to roll up a sleeve.”

Here are the upcoming blood drives in Waltham:

• July 27: Espousal Retreat Center, 554 Lexington St., open from 2 to 7 p.m.

• July 29: Waverley Oaks Athletic Club, 411 Waverley Oak Dr., open from 1 to 6 p.m.

If you cannot attend the drive, use this search tool to find other blood drives near you.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old, or at least 16 years old with parental consent. They must also be healthy and feeling well and weigh at least 110 pounds. Donors must also not have donated blood in the last 56 days.

Here are some additional donation guidelines for young donors.

• Story by Joe Lipovich (Patch Staff)

Skip Wood (Patch Staff) also contributed to this report.