Many sickle cell patients depend on regular blood transfusions from African American blood donors to treat the effects of the disease. But, the number of African Americans donating blood with the American Red Cross has dropped by more than half in recent weeks due to COVID-19. Donations are needed now to help ensure treatments continue uninterrupted.

The Urban League of Greater Madison Guild and Young Professionals are proud to partner with the Red Cross to host a Sickle Cell Blood Drive on July 9.

As part of drive, the Red Cross is offering all who donate at the Urban League on July 9 testing for COVID-19 antibodies. Donors should learn of their test results within 7-10 days.

To make an appointment, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org. Enter Sponsor Code: MadisonSickleCell