Charlottesville, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Alexis Innis, Donor Accounts Manager at the American Red Cross, provided insights into the ongoing efforts of the organization following a disaster-related blood shortage. “The emergency ended on September 7th,” she explained, adding that while the immediate need has lessened, challenges persist as we deal with Hurricane Helene “we can’t get our donors to donate in those communities because of road closures.” 

Innis also highlighted the critical importance of blood donations in raising awareness for sickle cell anemia, particularly in African American communities. She emphasized the role of the Red Cross in offering sickle cell trait testing for those who identify as Black or African American. “Many people don’t know what their trait status is… we’ll put on that sickle trait testing if you self-identify as Black or African American,” she said. 

Looking ahead, Innis noted that the Red Cross is partnering with organizations like the NAACP for an upcoming blood drive on October 6th. The goal is to increase donor participation and ensure a steady blood supply for those in need. 

For more information, listen to the full conversation here: