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Update: NCM's 2022 Red Cross Blood Drive collects enough units to save 513 lives

The blood supply in the U.S. is at an all-time low.

PORTLAND, Maine — Update:

After all the donations concluded, NEWS CENTER Maine and the Red Cross collected 171 units of blood. 

That's enough to potentially save 513 lives. 

Thanks to everyone who showed up to donate and make a difference! 

Original story:

March is Red Cross Month.

Earlier this year, the Red Cross issued its first-ever blood crisis alert with the blood supply at its lowest level in a decade. 

The Red Cross has experienced about a 10 percent decline in the number of people donating blood since the pandemic began.

NEWS CENTER Maine is joining forces with the Red Cross to help fellow Mainers in need. We are asking our viewers to help their neighbor by donating blood on Wednesday, March 23.

With the simple act of donating blood or platelets, eligible donors can help save up to three lives with one donation.

The need for blood is constant. Someone in the U.S. needs blood every 2 seconds. 

Make a difference by joining us Wednesday, March 23

HOW TO REGISTER

  • Go to RedCrossBlood.org
  • Click on DONATE BLOOD, then FIND A BLOOD DRIVE
  • Enter sponsor code: NEWSCENTERMAINE
  • Choose your donation site and time

The Red Cross has had less than a one-day supply of critical blood products in recent weeks – well below the idea five-day supply. All blood types are needed, especially types O positive and O negative.

NEWS CENTER Maine Red Cross Blood Drive 5 Donation Locations March 23.

Credit: NCM

FYI: The process of donating blood only takes about an hour, from start to finish, and about 8 to 10 minutes of that is actually donating blood.

Join NEWS CENTER Maine on Wednesday, March 23, and turn your compassion into action. Help ensure blood is always available whenever and wherever it is needed.

RELATED: Family of Biddeford boy with rare brain cancer asks people to donate blood

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