Naples, FL - Southwest Florida hospitals are looking for blood donors because of a critically low supply that's expected to worsen due to Hurricane Ian.
The NCH Healthcare System, a not-for-profit healthcare system located in Naples, issued a plea for donors as it's blood center is in dire need of platelets, a blood component that forms clots and prevents bleeding.
The hospital system has experienced a surge in hospitalizations since Hurricane Ian hit last week.
Those looking to donate blood can do so without an appointment at NCH’s blood center at 1100 Immokalee Road in North Naples.
Those looking to donate platelets need to make an appointment by calling 239-624-4130.
Lee Health, the public hospital system in neighboring Lee County, currently has enough blood supplies, but that could change as Ian clean up continues.
Blood donor centers at Cape Coral Hospital and the Bonita Community Health Center are open between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday.