The American Red Cross is in need of blood.

That’s due to a severe nation-wide shortage based on the number of trauma cases, organ transplants and the rise of elective surgeries.

“Donors of all blood types – especially type O and those giving platelets – are urged to make an appointment to give as soon as possible to prevent delays to critical patient care,” said Steve Walsh of the American Red Cross.

In an effort to help with the shortage, VFW Veterans Center, 580 Moffat Blvd., Manteca, will be among the Red Cross places conducting a blood drive, scheduled Monday (June 21) from noon to 6 p.m.

A second blood drive in Manteca (same place and time) will be held on June 28.

Appointments can be made by logging on to www.RedCross.Blood.org or calling 1.800.733.2767.

Interested donors – must weigh at least 110 pounds and in good health – are required to bring a blood donor card or a driver’s license or two forms of identification during check-in.

In addition, Red Cross noted that there’s a great hospital demand for blood as people who deferred care during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic present with more advanced disease progression, requiring increased blood transfusions.

Red Cross, over the past three months, has distributed about 75,000 more blood products than expected to meet these needs. As a result of this shortage, some hospitals are being forced to slow the pace of elective surgeries until the blood supply stabilizes.

“Blood is perishable and cannot be stockpiled, so it must constantly be replenished by generous blood donors,” Walsh said.

Red Cross is testing all donations for COVID-19 antibodies through June 25.

Testing, in addition, may show possible exposure to the virus or whether a donor has developed an immune response to vaccination. The conclusion of the antibody testing represents a new, hopeful phase as the nation continues to journey out of this pandemic, according to Red Cross.