Blood and more needed. The American Red Cross of Northern New England faces a severe blood shortage

COVID-19 has temporarily disrupted normal life in many communities, but the need for blood hasn’t changed. The American Red Cross has implemented several enhanced blood donations protocols in the interest of safety, and there is an urgent and critical need for volunteers to support these protocols.

A new volunteer opportunity, Blood Donor Screener, will help pre-screen blood donors entering drives or donation centers.

Please take a moment to sign up at https://www.redcross.org/volunteer/become-a-volunteer.html.

Please also consider donating blood as we are facing a severe blood shortage due to unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during this coronavirus outbreak. You can make an appointment to give blood or platelets at RedCrossBlood.org.

***When considering volunteering, please review the risk guidance provided by the CDC and your healthcare provider.

Please reach out if you have any questions. Erica.Fuller4@redcross.org.

Other Volunteer Workers and Donations Are Needed to Strengthen Vermont’s Response

Other individuals who do not have medical or healthcare backgrounds but are willing to volunteer their time in Vermont’s response effort can register through the state’s volunteer web portal click  https://www.vermont.gov/volunteer  and indicate their expertise and availability.

The State expects to draw upon many skills to meet the challenge of serving those affected by COVID-19, potentially including drivers, food service, construction, IT, security, skilled trades and more.

In addition to volunteering their time, Vermonters can also contribute to blood banks, food banks, and other emergency supply efforts.  Many local food banks and other community organizations are in need of support and donations of supplies. In addition to volunteering, Vermonters can also give back in the following ways: