March 19, 2020
Rutherford County Schools
Across our nation, people in need turn to the American Red Cross when help can’t wait. But the extraordinary public health impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic will pose significant challenges as we continue delivering our lifesaving mission.
The Red Cross must adapt to meet these challenges, so we can support individuals and families who turn to us for help when it’s needed most. I want to update you on how the Red Cross is preparing to ensure we can continue providing vital blood products and disaster relief for people in need.
Please review our latest donor information sheet for more information on the steps we are taking to date.
Critically, the Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage a due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during this outbreak. Through March 17, nearly 4,000 Red Cross blood drives had been canceled across the U.S. due to coronavirus concerns, resulting in more than 100,000 fewer blood donations—and this number continues to grow.
One of the most important roles of a board member is to serve as an informed advocate in our community. To support you, we will provide the most current information as we receive it. Please share these updates with your friends, family and contacts.
People in our community are looking for ways to help, and you can show them how. Please ask your friends, family and colleagues to join you in supporting our work by:
Making a financial gift to “Coronavirus Outbreak” today.
Sharing updates on the Red Cross response to the Coronavirus Outbreak via:
Customizable “get” email (see below)
Social media, including (Facebook or Twitter).
Text “Coronavirus” to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
Encouraging people who are healthy and eligible to make a blood donation appointment to help prevent shortages of lifesaving blood for people in need.
The Murfreesboro Blood Donor Center (501 Memorial Blvd., Murfreesboro) is now open 7 days a week.
Sunday – 7 AM – 3 PM
Monday – 11:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Tuesday – 11:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Wednesday – 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday – 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday – 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday – 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Please make an appointment online at REDCROSS.ORG or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. You can also download the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
On behalf of all the people we’re helping, thank you!