Walker County residents are being asked to make a lifesaving donation this month. On Wednesday, May 26, Walker County Government will host a community blood drive to help answer the call for blood donations leading into the Memorial Day holiday weekend. The drive will run from 1-5 p.m. at the Walker County Civic Center, 10052 Hwy. 27 in Rock Spring.
Donors can schedule an appointment by visiting bloodassurance.org/WCCC or by calling 1-800-962-0628.
Blood Assurance has an immediate need for all blood types. The number of units of O-positive, O-negative and B-negative blood has reached critical levels, with less than a day supply on hand to meet the needs of area hospitals. A-positive and A-negative supply has also dropped below the standard five day inventory level.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely impacted blood donations over the past year," officials said. "Limitations on gatherings, donors working or attending school from home and fewer opportunities for mobile blood drives have resulted in a shortage of blood units locally and in other parts of the country.
Blood donations are essential to maintain the infrastructure of our healthcare system. Donors who have received a COVID-19 vaccine remain eligible to donate blood."
All donors who attend this event on May 26 will also receive a “Donoritaville” t-shirt.