The Red Cross says fewer blood donations since the end of May have left distributions to hospitals nearly 3,500 units higher than expected per week, at a time when demand for blood products often rises during trauma season. It also points to busy schedules and the seasonal loss of school blood drives as factors that could put patient care at risk if donors don’t step up.
To help rebuild the supply, the Red Cross urges people across Kansas to book an appointment to give blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors who give during July 13-31, 2026 will receive a Fandango Movie Ticket by email (up to $15 plus fees), and upcoming local donation opportunities are listed for multiple Kansas communities.