The Christian County Health Department is encouraging eligible residents to consider giving blood as the need for donations becomes increasingly urgent nationwide.

Members of the Christian County Health Department team recently rolled up their sleeves and donated blood at the Taylorville Fire House, joining others throughout the community in helping provide a potentially lifesaving resource to patients in need.

The call for donations comes as the American Red Cross has declared only the second national blood crisis in its history. According to the Red Cross, blood donations have fallen to a four-year summer low, creating an emergency shortage that could directly impact patients who rely on blood and blood products every day.

Blood donations can help patients facing emergencies, undergoing surgery, battling serious illnesses, or requiring lifesaving transfusions.

Health Department officials say every donation can make a difference, and those who are eligible are encouraged to take action.

Residents who are unsure where or when they can donate can check with the American Red Cross to find an upcoming blood drive and schedule an appointment.

The Christian County Health Department also thanked everyone who continues to give the gift of life and praised the community for continuing to step up when help is needed most.

To find a community blood drive event, and location, visit www.redcrossblood.org, in the top right hand side of the web page simply enter in your zip code and click the blue arrow.

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