The Blood Center urges donations following Hurricane Francine

New Orleans, LA — The Blood Center is calling for blood donations this weekend following cancellations and closures caused by Hurricane Francine. To help replenish the local blood supply, donor center hours have been extended and additional days added.

“Our community requires a three- to four-day supply of blood products for a scenario like Hurricane Francine and the impact experienced from her devastation, especially in South Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast,” said Billy Weales, President and CEO of The Blood Center. “We must respond now to ensure patient care is not adversely jeopardized. All citizens are highly encouraged to DONATE NOW.”

Dr. Tim Peterson, Medical Director for The Blood Center, emphasized the urgency: “As our community begins cleanup efforts after Hurricane Francine, we expect an increase in emergency room visits, which could strain our local blood supply. It’s our responsibility to donate blood and ensure our hospitals are prepared to provide the quality healthcare we rely on.”

Donor centers with extended hours include:

Although around 60% of the population is eligible to donate blood, only 5% do so. The Blood Center needs to collect between 200 and 250 pints daily to maintain a stable supply and meet community needs.

For more information on donating blood or finding a nearby donation center, call (800) 86-BLOOD or visit TheBloodCenter.org. You can also follow The Blood Center on social media at @TheBloodCenter.