The American Red Cross says from severe hurricanes to the tragic shooting in Las Vegas, it’s important to remember the value of donating blood.

The association said every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood or blood product–and that’s just on a normal day.
The need is even greater when an unexpected emergency strikes.
Regardless of where the need is, Laura Merritt, a Donor Recruitment Representative for American Red Cross, said all donations help.

If you donate here in Central PA it becomes part of the national inventory that can be sent to places like Las Vegas or Puerto Rico.

The American Red Cross said for this mass shooting in Las Vegas, they were able to keep up with the demand; but only because they had enough stored up.
So now they need to replenish their supply and stress that the motivation to donate should keep going especially after a national crisis.
Richard Myers, a Bellefonte resident, said he has been donating blood and palettes for about 10 years on a regular basis.

“People see these emergency situations and donate. And once you find out how easy it is or how necessary it is, I hope these people will continue donating,” Myers said.
“These tragic events serve as a reminder of why it is so important for us to be doing our part with blood donation,” Merritt said.

There’s also an incentive for Penn State fans to donate for the Bleed Blue event.
Icould score you a VIP spot at the next home game.
For more details on how you can qualify, and save a life click here.