Dak Minn Blood Bank is celebrating National Blood Donor Month in January. Special recognition will be given to blood donors through prizes and treats all month long.
“Blood donations are vital to saving lives in our community,” said Terri Hintz, supervisor of the donor center at Dak Minn Blood Bank. “Using those donations we make red blood cells, platelets, and plasma that are used to provide over 7,000 transfusions for patients in need at Altru.”
Dak Minn Blood Bank is the only Hospital-Based Donation Center in North Dakota. “Hospital-based donor centers promote community engagement and altruism within a community and provide a tangible way for members of a community to give back,” said Hintz.
Dak Minn Blood Bank provides more than 90 percent of the blood products needed for transfusions at Altru each year. While the COVID-19 pandemic causes supply chain shortages worldwide, it’s also affecting donations.
“Nationwide blood donations are down 30% when compared to before the pandemic,” said Hintz. “We are tracking that same way here at Dak Minn Blood Bank with our donations in 2021.”
As the main supplier of blood products for Altru Hospital, donations are a lifesaving resource. “Donations are crucial to helping people in need,” said Hintz. “Accidents can happen at any time. Having blood products available for transfusions can save the life of our family, friends, and neighbors.”
All blood donations at Dak Minn Blood Bank will stay local and will support the communities of Grand Forks, Northwood, McVille, Rugby, and Cavalier, N.D. Anyone who wishes to donate blood is asked to make an appointment to ensure a safe environment for donors and staff. Visit DakMinnBloodBank.org or call 701.780.5433 to schedule an appointment.
