Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO), the sole supplier of blood and plasma to patients at 44 area healthcare facilities, reports a critical shortage of most blood types. The blood needs for area patients have increased, but mobile blood drive cancellations continue. As a result, any mobile blood drives that remain scheduled become vitally important.
CBCO donors provide all the blood for patients at Ozarks Medical Center in West Plains, as well as dozens more across the region. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in March, over 350 blood drives have been cancelled or postponed, affecting over 11,000 potential blood donations. West Plains area residents will have the opportunity to donate at the following location:
West Plains Elks Lodge
Bloodmobile on Parking Lot
3633 N. Highway 63
Wednesday, October 21 – 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Donors will receive a “Mullet Over” T-shirt. This fun sand colored shirt has a cool retro look that is sure to spark conversation.
Donors are strongly encouraged to make an appointment to give to maintain social distancing guidelines and improve donor flow. Masks are required at this drive. If you do not have a mask, one will be provided for you. Donors can schedule an appointment at www.cbco.org/donate-blood.
On behalf of local hospital patients, CBCO thanks blood donors from across the region for giving life to your community.