South Texas Blood & Tissue urges people to donate blood as Spring Break travel kicks off

South Texas Blood & Tissue is urging people to donate blood to help keep the region’s supply stable.  Blood centers often see fewer donations during Spring Break as families travel and schools close.  At the same time, hospitals can see an increase in trauma-related emergencies tied to travel and outdoor activities.

According to America’s Blood Centers and other U.S. blood organizations, patients across the country need about 30,000 units of red blood cells every day.  Those donations support trauma care, cancer treatment, surgeries and people living with chronic illnesses.

Health officials say repeat donors are critical to maintaining the blood supply.  Only about 3% of eligible Americans donate blood each year, according to blood organizations.

Appointments can be scheduled online at SouthTexasBlood.org or by calling 833-You-Give (833-968-4483).