BEATRICE - Generous individuals in southeast Nebraska are taking part in a two-day blood drive in Beatrice.

The American Red Cross has set up camp at the Holiday Inn in north Beatrice, for their bi-monthly blood drive. Organizer Karen Probst tells NCN these drives are key in helping combat the nationwide blood shortage.

“We are very short. We need blood,” Probs said. “Today [Wednesday] we’re full. Our goal is 140 for the two days, and as you can see behind you, the tables are all full, and that’s really good.”

As of Wednesday afternoon, Probst said the Red Cross is on track to meet their goal of 140. She says even one person donating goes a long ways.

“Every unit helps three people. Add that together and the makes a lot of blood,” Probs said. “Then we also have the power reds and those help six people.”

Probst also says donating blood can be of help to someone in your own life, in addition to helping area hospitals.

“It’s very important to donate because they’re always short of blood,” Probst said. “And, even when they don’t need it at the hospital, maybe it’s someone you know, who needs it, so it’s very important that we give blood.”

The drive will open on Thursday at 7 a.m. and is accepting appointments until the early afternoon.