Red Cross donations low after Sandy cancels drives in northern Ohio

CLEVELAND - The Red Cross is urging the public to donate in the aftermath of superstorm Sandy.

Red Cross officials said because of the storm, three blood drives scheduled in northern Ohio had to be canceled. As a result, the organization is now facing a shortage of about 100 blood and platelet donations.

Eligible donors are encouraged to make an appointment at one of northern Ohio’s five donation centers .

Eligibility requirements include:

- A blood donor card or driver's license, or two other forms of identification

- At least 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states)

- Weigh at least 110 pounds

- In generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

- High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements

Appointment can be made by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or signing up on line at redcrossblood.org .