Prior to and as a result of Hurricane Dolly, community blood supply levels remain far below a safe level. The Southwest Blood Region of the American Red Cross expresses grave concern over current blood supply levels. To prevent a potentially dangerous blood shortage, the Region is urging all eligible whole blood donors to call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE to schedule a donation appointment as soon as possible.

"Blood is perishable, so every unit collected is used almost immediately," said John Hansen, Executive Director, Southwest Blood Region covering Texas. "When we lose even a few days worth of collections, it leaves the community blood supply at a severe deficit.

Recent donation rates have not been sufficient to boost the supply that provides our hospitals with life-saving blood. We need help to immediately replenish the supply to prevent possible shortages that could threaten these patients. We urge the community to show their support by donating as soon as possible."

Altus Chapter of the American Red Cross - is hosting a blood drive Tuesday, Aug. 12 from 12 to 6 p.m. at the Altus Community

Center. You can make an appointment by visiting www.givelife.org <http://www.givelife.org/> and use sponsor code: altus or call

1-800-GIVELIFE.



WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO GIVE BLOOD? DONORS MUST:

* Be generally in good health;

* Be at least 17 years of age;

* Weight no less than 110 pounds;

* Have NOT donated whole blood within the past 56 days.



About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and

counsels victims of disasters; provides nearly half of the nation's

blood supply; teaches lifesaving skills; and supports military members

and their families. The American Red Cross is a charity, not a

government agency, and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the

American public to perform its humanitarian mission.