BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Following World Sickle Cell Day, the American Red Cross in Western New York is looking for more blood donors. Specifically, Black blood donors.
Starting in March, gathering points such as churches, schools, and businesses closed and were no longer hosting blood drives.
"That access was down. In addition to the fact that the African American community was highly affected, disproportionately so by COVID-19 and continues to be," spokesperson Katie Potter said. "Those converging factors have definitely had an impact specifically on the availability of a diverse blood supply."
Without ample donated blood, Sickle Cell Disease patients face increased pain and the potential of strokes and organ damage. You can find a Red Cross blood drive or donation center and make an appointment to donate on their website.
Heightened protocols are in place to protect against COVID-19 and an appointment is required to donate.
