Pennsylvania Office of Administration

10/10/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/10/2024 08:14

Commonwealth Employees Roll Up their Sleeves to Address National Blood Shortage

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Commonwealth Employees Roll Up their Sleeves to Address National Blood Shortage

First Lady Lori Shapiro and the Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank hosted a Commonwealth Blood Drive to help local hospitals and replenishlocal blood supplies.


HARRISBURG, PA - Yesterday, the Commonwealth hosted an employee blood drive at the Commonwealth Keystone Building with First Lady Lori Shapiro and the Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank. Commonwealth employees donated 74 pints of blood to help replenish local blood supplies and address a persistent nationwide shortage.

Many blood organizations began warning of shortages earlier this year. Extreme heat and natural disasters like floods, tornadoes, and hurricanes have forced the cancellation of blood drives in many communities, putting added strain on low supplies.

"Every day, hospitals rely on donated blood to provide life saving care to sick and injured people. However, this system is at risk from declining donations and increased need arising from emergencies, natural disasters, and medical treatments," said First Lady Lori Shapiro. "Giving blood is something nearly everyone can do, and I encourage Pennsylvanians to get into the habit of giving regularly."

"Here locally, and across the nation, there is a constant need for people to come out and donate blood for their family, friends and neighbors," said Jay Wimer, spokesperson for the Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank. "We truly thank the First Lady and everyone at the Capitol for shining a light on this continuous need, and for holding the largest blood drive in Capitol history."

A steady supply of blood donations is critical to saving lives following a serious injury, surgery, complications from childbirth, an emergency or natural disaster, as well as treating diseases like cancer. One pint of blood can save up to three lives.

Pennsylvanians can visit the Department of Health website for more information about blood donation, including eligibility, donation centers, and moreOpens In A New Window.

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