Shimkus Gives Blood, Urges Others to Do the Same

Congressman John Shimkus (R, Illinois-15) is urging constituents to help meet the nation's urgent need for blood and platelets. For a limited time, the American Red Cross will also test all blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies at no cost to donors.

(CONGRESSMAN SHIMKUS GIVES BLOOD IN BELLEVILLE LAST WEEK)

"With many previously scheduled blood drives cancelled due to the pandemic, the Red Cross continues to face a shortage of blood," Shimkus said. "Donating blood is a safe process and people should not hesitate to give or receive blood."

While donations are needed nationwide, Shimkus specifically called on constituents in the Effingham area to consider donating blood.

"Effingham is home to the Red Cross fixed site with the highest percentage of donations of O negative blood in the country," the congressman explained. "O negative is known as the Universal Blood type because it can be used in blood transfusions for any blood type."

Potential donors can use the Red Cross Blood Donor mobile app to schedule an appointment, or call 1-800-733-2767. The app is available from the Apple or Google Play app stores.