CLARKSTON, WA –June 1, 2022- Tri-State Memorial Hospital is partnering with Vitalant and Clarkston High School to host their second community blood drive, on Wednesday, June 8, 2022, from 3:00pm-8:00pm, at the Clarkston High School Library, located at 401 Chestnut Street, Clarkston.
Vitalant serves about 900 hospitals across 28 states, and has been facing a two-year low blood supply. Each day, Vitalant needs to collect about 5,300 donations to be ready for both routine and emergency patient needs. Blood donations at Vitalant fell short of the need by more than 4,500 donations in December and the trend continued into January.
“Even though most people are eligible to donate, only 3% of eligible donors actually do. 1 out of every 7 patients who enter the hospital need blood products,” said Joe Fairbanks, Territory Manager for Vitalant. “With emergencies, accidents, everyday surgeries, and everyday uses such as blood disorders and cancer treatments, your donations are greatly needed and graciously appreciated.”
All blood types are welcome and needed. The amount of donations received during this drive will go towards Clarkston High School possibly receiving STEM grants and student scholarship opportunities.
“We are excited to continue partnering with our schools and Vitalant to save lives in the Lewis Clark Valley,” said Rebecca Mann, Director of Marketing & Communication for Tri-State Memorial Hospital. “At our last blood drive we collected eleven donations, and this time we hope to exceed that! Each and every generous donation is important and always greatly appreciated.”
There’s a critical shortage of blood, and all donors are needed to help ensure patients receive necessary treatment. Many of the nation’s blood centers, including Vitalant, are experiencing a critical shortage of blood. For those who would like to donate, click here to make an appointment.