The American Red Cross is putting out a call for help after the organization distributed 75,000 more donated blood product than expected in the last 90 days.
The American Red Cross needs blood donations thanks to a nationwide shortage from the pandemic and a rise in gun violence, resulting in more trauma patients.
Right now, blood banks across the area are reporting short supplies.
![American Red Cross urges blood donations amid nationwide shortage [Video]](https://video.newsserve.net/300/v/20210728/2107282023-American-Red-Cross-urges-blood-donations-amid-nationwide.jpg)
![American Red Cross sends call for donations as more E.R. trauma, surgeries lead to higher need [Video]](https://video.newsserve.net/300/v/20210714/2107141116-American-Red-Cross-sends-call-for-donations-as.jpg)
![Surge in gun violence adds to blood shortage [Video]](https://video.newsserve.net/300/v/20210713/2107131716-Surge-in-gun-violence-adds-to-blood-shortage.jpg)
