The Community Blood Bank has declared a critical need for blood donations. It describes the current shortage as an "emergency" caused by a recent surge in hospital visits.

"Our shelves are nearly empty. Patients right here in our community are counting on us, and we can't meet this demand without the immediate help from the public,” Megan Solensky, community relations specialist at the Community Blood Bank, said. “We are launching this emergency appeal to get more donors through our doors as quickly as possible."

The blood bank is offering a special incentive to encourage donations. Everyone who donates at the blood bank on Peach St. from Aug. 23 to Sept. 6 will get a $15 Country Fair gift card. 

The Community Blood Bank is at 2646 Peach Street in Erie.