A pair of Guelph clinics are in need of blood donors this long weekend – Guelph | Globalnews.ca

Canadian Blood Services is hoping people can donate blood before heading out on the long weekend.

There are some blood donor clinics operating in Guelph.

One is this Friday, July 29, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the other Saturday, July 30, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Both will be on 130 Silvercreek for sure. N., north of Willow Road in Winners Plaza.

Canadian Blood Services said in a news release that it needs more than 100,000 new donors in Canada to meet demand.

Community development manager Gina Leva said blood donors are usually needed at this time of year, and she is currently having difficulty finding people willing to donate.

“All our permanent centers are struggling,” Leva said. “People are traveling, people are out and about. So there are many reasons why people can’t book appointments, they aren’t able to donate blood.”

The Canadian Blood Services said that during the pandemic, the number of regular blood donors decreased by 31,000, resulting in the smallest donor base in a decade.

But it said this past June was the third largest month to welcome new donors since the start of the pandemic.

“Everyone should feel comfortable donating blood (in their clinic),” Leva said. “We have stepped up everything. Strict cleaning, physical distancing, wearing masks… everything.”

Leva said donated blood is tested to make sure it is safe before being used for a transfusion or operation.

To make an appointment, go here Canadian Blood Service website Or call 1-888-236-6283.