Cloverdale resident Mike Garisto, seen here in an undated file photo donating blood, is a frequent donor. The Canadian Blood Services Agency says more donors are needed to help restock the blood supply this summer.

Cloverdale resident Mike Garisto, seen here in an undated file photo donating blood, is a frequent donor. The Canadian Blood Services Agency says more donors are needed to help restock the blood supply this summer.

Blood donors needed to bolster supply before long weekend

Residents of Cloverdale can donate blood at an upcoming clinic at Cloverdale Catholic Parish Centre on Aug. 2.

Canadian Blood Services has put out an urgent call for donations ahead of the B.C. Day long weekend.

Residents of Cloverdale can donate blood at an upcoming clinic at Cloverdale Catholic Parish Centre on Aug. 2.

The national blood inventory has steadily declined this summer, a time when many donors are on vacation, Canadian Blood Services announced Tuesday. Summer is also a time when more fatalities occur on Canadian roads.

Donors are needed to boost inventory through the August long weekend and into the coming weeks.

“Summer is a challenging time for blood collection, when many regular donors are on vacation – this is a great time for new donors to join us and help prevent a further decline in the national inventory,” Mark Donnison, vice president of donor relations, said. “Platelets derived from blood are critical to help stop bleeding and unfortunately expire just five days after a blood donation.”

The Cloverdale clinic is Sunday, Aug. 2 from 9;30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Cloverdale Catholic Parish Centre, 17475 59 Avenue.

The clinic target is 86 units.

To book an appointment to give blood, use the Give Blood App or visit blood.ca. For more information, call 1-888-2DONATE.

Those with an appointment are encouraged to keep their appointment and if possible bring along a friend or family member to donate with them.

Walk-ins are also welcome.

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Cloverdale Reporter