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LaGrange plans to host a Blood Drive from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday at the LaGrange Fire Department’s Training Room located at 115 Hill Street in LaGrange.

Katie Van Schoor, City of LaGrange marketing and communications manager, said the American Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donations as hospitals resume surgical procedures that were put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Blood saves lives,” Mayor Jim Thornton said. “Anything we can do to help the Red Cross is a worthwhile endeavor.”

According to a news release from the city, in recent weeks, hospital demand for blood products has grown by 30% after sharply declining in early April amid this rapidly changing and complex public health crisis. At the same time, blood drives continue to be canceled as many businesses and community organizations remain closed.

“Blood donors have played a vital role in the lives of patients who have needed lifesaving transfusions during this pandemic, and patients continue to depend on donors each and every day,” said Paul Sullivan, Red Cross Blood Services senior vice president. “The Red Cross appreciates the support of those who rolled up a sleeve to give in recent months, but the need doesn’t stop. We need the public’s help to avoid another blood shortage this summer.”

Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are being encouraged.

To make an appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code LaGrange or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.