Red Cross blood drives scheduled in Wenatchee, Leavenworth

WENATCHEE — The American Red Cross is urging residents in Chelan County to donate blood or platelets in March as the organization works to stabilize the national blood supply following a recent shortage.

The Red Cross said donors of all blood types are needed as the region moves into spring, when severe weather and other disruptions can affect blood collections and hospital supplies.

Eligible donors who give blood, platelets or plasma between March 1 and March 31 will receive free A1C testing, commonly used to help identify diabetes and prediabetes, with successful donations. Those who come to donate during the same period will also receive a $15 Amazon gift card by email, according to the organization.

Two donation opportunities are scheduled in Chelan County later this month.

In Wenatchee, a blood drive is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 17 at Hope Church for Wenatchee, 11 N. Chelan Ave.

In Leavenworth, a blood drive will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 19 at Cascade High School, 10190 Chumstick Highway.

The Red Cross encourages donors to schedule appointments in advance to help maintain a steady blood supply and prevent disruptions to patient care.

Appointments can be made by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 800-733-2767 or using the Red Cross Blood Donor mobile app.

Individuals who are 17 years old in most states, or 16 with parental consent where allowed by law, may be eligible to donate. Donors must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in generally good health. A blood donor card, driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Donors can also complete their pre-donation health history questionnaire online the day of their appointment using the RapidPass system available through the Red Cross website or donor app.