The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks issues a critical appeal for all negative blood types.

According to a release from the CBCO, reserves of A negative, B negative and O negative blood products are at less than one day levels. Eligible donors are strongly urged to give immediately. 

“CBCO is experiencing shortages of A negative, B negative and O negative blood, with many reserves at less-than-optimal levels. We are having a difficult time keeping our shelves stocked, and since we are the sole provider of blood to area hospitals, a shortage impacts us locally,” CBCO Executive Director Anthony Roberts said in the release. “With schools coming to the end of the year, we are looking to our local community-based donors to help keep the blood supply at adequate levels. If you are eligible, we urge you to make a donation. If you have never donated before, now is the ideal time to start.” 

Donations can be made at the CBCO Donation Centers in Springfield, Joplin, Bentonville, and Springdale with Mobile Blood Drives scheduled in the region over the next few weeks including:

5/11 Hollister Community Blood Drive at Branson Tri-Lakes News Office 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
5/12 Eureka Springs High School 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
5/12 Berryville Community Blood Drive at Southern Heights Baptist Church 11:30 am to 5:30 pm
5/18 Reeds Spring High School 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
5/18 Stone County Courthouse Galena 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
5/18 Branson Masonic Lodge 587 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm
5/20 Nixa Sucker Days 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

To schedule an appointment to donate, go to the CBCO Website.