Area residents can help address a critical blood shortage by donating blood Friday at the Bank of LaFayette.
Blood Assurance will hold a blood drive from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the main Bank of LaFayette branch. Donors of all blood types are encouraged to participate.
The drive comes as the American Red Cross reports an emergency blood shortage nationwide. A steep decline in blood donations since the end of May has created a growing gap between the available blood supply and patient needs.
Officials say every donation is important in helping rebuild the nation’s blood supply and protect patient care.
Residents are encouraged to make an appointment to donate blood, platelets or plasma as soon as possible. Those who are able to donate at Friday’s blood drive can help ensure blood products are available for patients who need them.