UPDATE AT 11:50 P.M. The Las Vegas Convention Center is at capacity for accepting donations and asks those interested in donating to contact the American Red Cross to determine where they can donate.
UPDATE AT 5:50 P.M. United Blood Services is reporting that it has met its blood needs in Las Vegas for now.
Here is a statement provided by the nonprofit:
At this time, United Blood Services is able to meet the blood needs of victims of the concert shooting being treated at our hospital partners—including University Medical Center (UMC) and other area hospitals. Earlier today, United Blood Services sent more than 200 units of blood and blood components to support the transfusion needs of these patients. We have been in close communication with area hospitals and stand ready to supply additional blood products as they are requested.
While we are in awe of the incredible outpouring of support from the hundreds of local residents and from those across the country, it’s important to note that in any situation where blood transfusions are needed, it’s the blood already on the shelf that saves lives. We understand that people want to come forward now to show their support, however, to effectively manage the blood supply for patients, we are asking donors to make appointments to give blood throughout the coming weeks.
Blood products have a limited shelf life — 42 days for red blood cells and just 5 days for platelets and must therefore be constantly replenished. We strongly encourage donors to schedule a donation appointment by calling 877-UBS-HERO (877-827-4376) or by visiting bloodhero.com. Due to the overwhelming response, donors may experience extended wait times when scheduling appointments by phone or online.
UPDATE AT 9:30 A.M. BounceU in Henderson, which is located right behind the Whitney Ranch donation center, is offering free bouncing until 5:30 p.m. today for children of adult donors. Call 702-735-5867 for more information.
UPDATE AT 9:09 A.M. Uber is offering free rides to people who want to donate blood today. Click here for more information.
The line to donate blood is now wrapped through the parking lot & around the the block. #PrayForVegas pic.twitter.com/wbeFIK46t9
— Yasmeen Hassan (@YasmeenTV) October 2, 2017
UPDATE AT 7:30 A.M. UBS says there is wait of several hours at Charleston location. They are now encouraging people to make an appointment through their website. They are also accepting donations food, blankets, phone chargers etc.
If you want to help, United Blood Services needs blood donations, water, blankets, & chairs for the people waiting in line. #PrayForVegas pic.twitter.com/9uGKyO5vvl
— Yasmeen Hassan (@YasmeenTV) October 2, 2017
ORIGINAL STORY
Blood is desperately needed after approximately 50 people were killed and 400 were transported to local hospitals because of a mass shooting at a country music festival.
United Blood Services is encouraging people to go to its West Charleston Boulevard and Whitney Ranch location in Henderson if they would like to donate blood.
Click here for more information.
