Representative Rodney D. Pierce is sponsoring two community blood drives on Wednesday, January 14.

Locations that day are the Northampton County Cultural and Wellness Center and Room 401 at Halifax Community College. Both events are scheduled from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The event is a partnership between Pierce’s office, the Halifax County Public Health System, Northampton County Health Department, and the American Red Cross. It is part of a public health initiative aimed at addressing critical shortages in the blood supply during the winter season and celebrating National Blood Donor Month.

“Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood,” said Pierce. “Our communities are feeling the impact of lower donation rates this time of year, and by coming together to give, we can save lives in our district, state and country.”

According to recent reporting, the American Red Cross and hospitals nationwide are experiencing strains on blood reserves — particularly during the summer and winter months — due to increased emergency demand and fewer donors. 

In the summer, trauma and emergency visits rise while donor turnout declines, creating a supply pinch. 

To help meet this need, the Red Cross has been offering incentives and perks, such as Amazon gift cards, to encourage donors to give blood.

Winter brings its own challenges. A recent story from North Carolina details how respiratory illnesses such as the flu have contributed to a slump in blood donations throughout the state, even as disaster recovery and routine medical needs continue.

January is National Blood Donor Month, a time to recognize the crucial role blood donors play in healthcare and to encourage more people to give, Pierce said. “According to health officials, every unit of donated blood can help save up to three lives — underscoring the importance of regular donations, especially during seasonal shortages.”

Of particular concern is Type O blood — both O negative and O positive units — which are in especially high demand because of their frequent use in trauma and emergency situations where immediate compatibility is required.

An added benefit for donors is the opportunity to receive a basic health screening, as blood pressure and iron levels are checked prior to donation — sometimes alerting individuals for the first time to conditions such as hypertension or anemia and encouraging follow-up care.

Pierce encourages members of the community — current donors and first-time donors alike — to attend.