Community invited to help fill final appointments at July 29 blood drive

The blood drive will take place Wednesday, July 29, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pottawattamie County Public Health Building, located at 515 5th Ave in Council Bluffs.

The goal is to collect at least 24 lifesaving blood donations. As of today, 21 appointments have been scheduled, with plenty of appointments still available.

The need for blood donations remains especially urgent. According to the American Red Cross, blood donations are not keeping pace with hospital demand, and supplies of type O blood are critically low. The organization has declared only the second national blood crisis in its history, with less than a one-day supply of type O positive blood currently available.

While walk-in donors are welcome if space allows, appointments are encouraged and can be scheduled online.

As a thank you for donating:

• All presenting donors will receive a Fandango movie ticket (up to a $15 value, delivered by email).

• Eligible Type O blood donors will also receive a bonus $20 e-gift card.

• A limited number of special edition Looney Tunes T-shirts will also be available while supplies last.

"Just one blood donation can help save up to three lives," said Kate Gerber, Public Relations Director for Pottawattamie County. "We hope community members who are able will consider making time to donate and make a difference in the lives of members of our community."

Pottawattamie County plans to host blood drives on a regular schedule throughout the year, making it easy for eligible donors to continue giving as often as they're able. The next community blood drive is already scheduled for September 23, providing another opportunity for those who are eligible to help meet the ongoing need for blood donations.

For eligibility requirements or to schedule an appointment, visit the American Red Cross website.