Red Cross hosts blood drive, encourages those who had COVID-19 to donate
Mammadu Diallo, then first-year mechinal engineering major, gives blood at the blood drive hosted by the National Society for Black Engineers at the Rec Center.
February 10, 2021
DeKALB — The Red Cross will be hosting a blood drive from 1-6 p.m. Feb. 23 at the Family Service Agency of Dekalb county, 1325 Sycamore Road.
The Red Cross is encouraging donations regardless of blood type, but the organization is encouraging donations from those who have recovered from COVID-19, according to an American Red Cross news release.
Blood donations from those who have recovered from COVID-19 help address the shortage of convalescent plasma, which can help patients currently fighting the Coronavirus.
Donors who schedule an appointment and give blood in February will also receive a $5 Amazon gift card for their time and donation.
For those wanting to schedule an appointment for the blood drive, go to the Red Cross website , or download the Red Cross Blood Donor app for your device or call 1-800-733-2726.
Additional precautions have been put in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including temperature checks, social distancing measures and the requirement to wear a mask while you are at the drive location.
Other locations and donations dates are on the Red Cross website.