Dell Rapids, SD – Avera Dells Area Hospital and Community Blood Bank will host the annual All American blood drive on Thursday, July 9 from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Max Merry Law Office (301 E. 4th St. Suite #1), please note change in location. Currently, local blood supplies are at a critically low status, as the COVID-19 pandemic has caused an overall decrease in supplies by 50%.
“The only way to increase the blood supply for local patients is through volunteer blood donors to schedule their donation for the upcoming blood drive at the Dell Rapids All American blood drive,” states Ken Versteeg, Executive Director, Community Blood Bank. “We are experiencing our lowest blood supply levels in over 20 years. The need for blood is increasing as we see many elective procedures being schedule throughout the area. Support your local blood supply and local heroes by joining us in saving lives in the Dell Rapids area.”
It is safe to donate blood during these times, as Community Blood Bank follows strict guidelines provided by the FDA, CDC and the Association of Blood Banks. With so many businesses either closing temporarily or sending staff to work from home, it has been nearly impossible to find enough organizations able to host a blood drive event. We request the community’s support at this blood drive, as we move into the summer months, and encourage residents to give blood that will directly save lives in the community. All who donate will receive a special event t-shirt.
Donor must be at least 17 years old (16 years old with a signed parent consent form found at www.cbblifeblood.org) weigh 110 pounds or more and be in good general health. Donors exhibiting cold or flu symptoms are unable to donate. A valid identification is required at the time of registration. It is recommended that a person eat and drink plenty of fluid prior to donating blood. With policies associated in addressing COVID-19, only donors with appointments will be accepted at this blood drive event. To schedule an appointment donors can call 605-428-2421. For information log onto www.cbblifeblood.org or call 1-877-877-3070.