Gov. Gianforte Proclaims January as Blood Donor Month

• January 19 2022

HELENA, Mont. — Governor Greg Gianforte today encouraged eligible Montanans to donate blood to mark Blood Donor Month.

“Montanans can give the gift of life by donating blood,” Gov. Gianforte said. “This Blood Donor Month, I encourage Montanans who are able to schedule an appointment to donate blood through the Red Cross and help address the blood shortage we face.”

“Montana and our country face a critical blood supply shortage,” acting state medical officer Dr. Maggie Cook-Shimanek said. “Montanans can make an important difference with just one blood donation, which can save up to three lives. Please consider contacting your local American Red Cross location to schedule a donation.”

According to the American Red Cross, blood donations have declined by 10% since March 2020, resulting in the worst nationwide blood shortage in 10 years. While all blood types are urgently needed, Type O positive and Type O negative are the most needed blood types.

Executive Director Diane Wright of the American Red Cross of Montana added, “The American Red Cross is facing a national blood crisis – its worst blood shortage in over a decade, posing a concerning risk to patient care. Blood product distributions are outpacing donations, and doctors have been forced to make difficult decisions about who receives blood transfusions and who will need to wait until more products become available.”

“Blood and platelet donations are critically needed to help prevent further delays in vital medical treatments,” she continued. “We urge all Montanans who are healthy and able to visit redcrossblood.org and schedule an appointment at a blood drive near them.”

To view the governor’s proclamation establishing January as Blood Donor Month, click here.

###