The American Red Cross escalated its call this week for donors to help combat a summer blood shortage.
The Red Cross said that around summer holidays like Independence Day there are fewer blood drives and a decline in new donors.
Karen Alderson said she donated blood on Tuesday during a drive at Friends University as a way to give back.
“My daughter has had to have blood several times,” Alderson said. “I’ve always thought I can give my blood to help somebody else along the way who is going to need it down the road just like somebody gave for her – so that’s why I give.”
The Red Cross has a Wichita Regional Office at 707 N. Main St. that is open daily for donors.
More information about donating can be found at redcrossblood.org or through the organization’s mobile app.
LaRissa Lawrie is an intern in the KMUW News Lab. Follow her at @lawriecreative.