More Ways to Give Life: Red Cross Expands donation Centers in Ohio
The American Red Cross is making it easier than ever for Central & Southern Ohio residents to donate blood and platelets with the recent opening of new facilities in Newark and cincinnati. These additions bring the total number of dedicated Blood and Platelet Donation Centers in the region to eight.
this expansion is part of a nationwide initiative to increase access to donation opportunities, offering donors more frequent and reliable scheduling options. Importantly, the new centers are equipped with apheresis machines – specialized equipment necessary for collecting platelets, a critical component of blood frequently enough needed by patients facing serious medical challenges.
Unlike standard blood donations, platelet collection requires this specific technology, which isn’t available at typical blood drives. Platelets are vital for helping patients undergoing organ transplants, battling cancer and chronic diseases, and recovering from traumatic injuries, as they play a key role in blood clotting and stopping bleeding.
The impact of platelet donations is powerfully illustrated by the story of a father and daughter from Central Ohio. Regular donors at the Lancaster Blood and Platelet Donation Center, they’ve made a commitment to giving back through platelet donations. Their inspiring story can be found here.
Looking ahead,the Red Cross has approved plans to build another Blood and Platelet Donation Center in the Miami Valley,slated for completion in fiscal year 2027,further strengthening its commitment to serving the healthcare needs of Ohio communities.
