June 16. The Community Blood Center of the Carolinas is urging the public to be proactive to ensure there is enough blood available for local patients and to prevent a summer blood shortage. This summer there is an increased concern that blood donations won’t meet the everyday and sometimes unexpected needs of local patients.

“The tragic events of the last few days have put a spotlight on the importance of blood in responding to the needs of a community,” said Martin Grable, president and CEO of CBCC. “We never know what tomorrow will bring, so it is important to act today to ensure blood is available at all times.”

CBCC is asking businesses, faith-based organizations and other groups to host blood drives throughout the rest of July or August and for donors to give during that time. CBCC is a non-profit, community-based blood center and the primary blood supplier to 27 regional hospitals, serving 20 North Carolina and three South Carolina counties.

To host a blood drive or to make an appointment at any center or mobile drive, visit www.cbcc.us or call 704-972-4700.