American Red Cross Seeks Blood Donations in Wake of Hurricane Irene

The American Red Cross is urging donors in southeast Michigan to give blood this week to help with a shortage along the East Coast in the wake of Hurricane Irene.

The hurricane has resulted in dozens of deaths and massive flooding in several Northeast states.

"The storm has forced the cancellation of over 60 Red Cross blood drives, resulting in the shortfall of more than 2,100 units of blood," according to a Red Cross press release. "It is expected that additional blood drives may be postponed in the coming days due to storm damage and power outages."

Blood donations are needed daily to help accident victims, cancer patients, those with blood disorders and people who've undergone surgery. People who are 17 or older and in general good health can give blood.

The Red Cross has 10 donation centers in Metro Detroit, including .

Donors can call to make an appointment or walk in to the Berkley center. However, walk-in donors may have to wait, as those with appointments are given first priority. The center's hours are as follows.

• 1-7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
• 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday
• 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday

For more information, call 800-RED-CROSS or visit www.redcrossblood.org/locations/berkley-donor-center.