Nov. 16, 2019

The City of Lee’s Summit, in partnership with the Community Blood Center, is hosting a blood drive on Nov. 25 to help address a critical blood shortage in the Kansas City metropolitan area. The blood drive will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at City Hall, 220 SE Green St.

The Community Blood Center says its blood supply has never been lower and it is in desperate need of donors of all blood types. Nearly 600 donors are needed every weekday to meet hospital needs. The Community Blood Center says it has seen a drop in its overall donor base, first-time donors, and high school and college donors. Meanwhile, the demand for blood donations has increased.

In addition to helping save lives, all participating donors will receive a custom Kansas City Chiefs T-shirt. Walk-in donors are allowed, but it is preferred donors sign up in advance to prevent long wait times.

Donors can register at bit.ly/ChiefsBloodDrive. There are certain requirements to donate blood. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 115 pounds and be in good overall health. Donors can be 16 years old with written consent from a parent or legal guardian. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids and eat a good meal prior to donating blood.