Red Cross Is Facing A Nationwide Blood Shortage – Here’s How Coles County Can Help!

The American Red Cross is sounding the alarm on a critical nationwide blood shortage, and there’s a local opportunity this upcoming week to help do something about it.

The national blood supply dropped roughly 25% in June 2026 alone, and the Red Cross is currently distributing blood to hospitals at nearly 3,500 units more per week than expected. The gap between supply and patient need is growing, and the organization says every donation right now is crucial.

Every two seconds in the United States, someone will receive a blood transfusion. However, fewer than 50% of Americans believe that they or someone close to them, will ever need one. That disconnect is part of what makes shortages like this one so dangerous. In addition to this, Summer brings with it what the Red Cross calls “peak trauma season,” meaning more injuries require more frequent blood transfusions.

Is there any good news? Well, Coles County residents have a chance to help right here at home on Thursday. The annual ‘Coles County Battle of the Badges’ blood drive is set for July 30th from 2 to 6 p.m. at two locations: the Mattoon Eagles Club and the Charleston VFW.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred and can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or through the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Need a little extra motivation to battle the dreaded needle? Donors at the ‘Coles County Battle of the Badges’ will receive a $15 Casey’s gift card while supplies last, plus a Fandango Movie Reward via email good for a free movie ticket. Donate in July at ANY Red Cross blood drive and you’ll also receive a Fandango ticket worth up to $15. The promotions continue into August when donors will get a $20 Amazon gift card by email.

Did you know that blood cannot be stockpiled? It has a limited shelf life and must be continually replenished by volunteer donors. The Red Cross says the average donor only gives one to two times per year, and summer is historically one of the hardest times to keep supply up. If you’ve been meaning to donate, Thursday, July 30th, is as good a time as any to make that happen!

‘Coles County Battle of the Badges’ Blood Drive Details!

When: Thursday, July 30th, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Mattoon Eagles Club and the Charleston VFW
Donor Perks: All donors receive a $15 Casey’s gas card (while supplies last) plus a Fandango Movie Reward emailed to see a movie for free.