Red Cross hosting blood drives around the region as supply challenges continue American Red Cross calls for blood donors. (Source: KEYC) By WECT Staff | March 15, 2021 at 5:48 AM EDT - Updated March 15 at 5:48 AM SOUTHEAST, N.C. (WECT) - COVID-19 has impacted nearly every aspect of life, but the need for blood hasnât changed, thatâs why the Red Cross is urging people to donate blood. âFor patients in the emergency room, fighting cancer or coping with a life-threatening illness, help canât wait. Their health is reliant on the selfless generosity of blood donors. However, the blood supply continues to face challenges from the ongoing pandemic and extreme winter weather that impacted much of the U.S. last month,â according to a press release.