ST. CLOUD -- Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. The American Red Cross is doing their part encouraging eligible donors.

January is National Blood Donor Month. Communication Program Manager Sue Thesenga says that cold temperatures have decreased donations this month.

"Across the United States, nearly 320 Red Cross blood drives were cancelled in 25 states," says Thesenga.

In Minnesota donors are eligible at the age of 16, with parental consent. The entire process takes about an hour, and you can donate every 56 days.

"They take your blood pressure, your hemoglobin, your pulse," says Thesenga. "They make sure you are healthy to donate that day."

The actual donation process takes about 5-8 minutes.

Collection Specialist Naomi Steffes says she enjoys the chance to connect with all the donors that come in.

"You learn about their lives, what they do, I've even found good recipes from donors," says Steffes.

The American Red Cross continues to help save lives everyday thanks to the many donors they receive.

If you are interested in donating blood you can call 1-800-733-2767 or visit www.redcrossblood.org.

Here is a list of upcoming blood drives in the area.

-Jan. 20 American Red Cross, St. Cloud 12:00-6:00 p.m.
-Jan. 21 American Red Cross, St. Cloud 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
-Jan. 23 American Red Cross, St. Cloud 12:00-6:00 p.m. - American Legion, Sauk Centre 1-7:00 p.m.
-Jan. 24 College of St. Benedict, St. Joseph 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
-Jan. 27 American Red Cross, St. Cloud 12:00-6:00 p.m.
-Jan. 28 American Red Cross, St. Cloud 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
-Jan 30 American Red Cross, St. Cloud 12:00-6:00 p.m.
-Jan 31 American Red Cross, St. Cloud 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

 

The American Red Cross continues to get donations for National Blood Donor Month. (PHOTO: Alex Svejkovsky, WJON News)
The American Red Cross continues to get donations for National Blood Donor Month. (PHOTO: Alex Svejkovsky, WJON News)
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