SAN ANTONIO — United for Uvalde. The South Texas Blood & Tissue Center is encouraging donors to give to remember through blood donations.
Roger Ruiz, with the center, said the need is always there especially now.
"Our supply is probably like a two day supply," Ruiz said.
He said they're averaging up to 400 units, which is down. For a better picture, he compared it to like going to the grocery store.
"You always pull that gallon of milk or juice," he said. "If they are running low, you always think they have some more in the back. But, if you look here there's nothing in the back."
They serve 48 counties and over 100 clinics and hospitals.
Two years ago, on May 24 tragedy struck in Uvalde. The need was great after the shooting at Robb Elementary. Through an emergency helicopter, they sent 25 units of blood to help save lives.
"We always have to be ready and have those donations available for any tragedy," Ruiz said.
Once a week, you will find Ashlyn Donohue giving her time to donate.
"I have always wanted to help as much as I can,” she said. "I have watched my mom growing up coming here always donating."
The 17-year-old has donated more than most, enough to help more than 70 lives.
"I want to make sure there is enough for everyone," the teen said. "It just scared me to think if something of that severe were to happen again that there wouldn't be enough blood to help everyone."
In the Summer, the center also sees about a 25% decline in donations.
Right now, the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center has "Unite for Uvalde" shirts, which are available for those who donate. They said proceeds will benefit the Uvalde Strong Fund through the San Antonio Area Foundation.
This Friday, school leaders from around our area will be giving back to donate blood.