JOPLIN, MO.--- The Community Blood Center of the Ozark's held a blood drive today at Freeman Health System in Joplin. Right now, they have a yellow alert for type "O" blood, meaning there is less then a 2 day supply on hand.
On average, the group uses 300 pints of blood a day to serve 38 area hospitals. Organizers say the winter months are always a challenge when it comes to collecting blood. Nurses say there are many reasons why people don't give.
"It's cold outside, people don't want to get cold. We do have flu symptoms going around, if they're sick they can't donate," says Patricia Erwin, Community Blood Center.
If you would like to donate, the Community Blood Center has an office set up at the main entrance of the Joplin Northpark Mall. It's open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
On average, the group uses 300 pints of blood a day to serve 38 area hospitals. Organizers say the winter months are always a challenge when it comes to collecting blood. Nurses say there are many reasons why people don't give.
"It's cold outside, people don't want to get cold. We do have flu symptoms going around, if they're sick they can't donate," says Patricia Erwin, Community Blood Center.
If you would like to donate, the Community Blood Center has an office set up at the main entrance of the Joplin Northpark Mall. It's open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
