Jennifer Leeper

The American Red Cross needs our help - there is an emergency blood shortage, which means the blood supply is critically low - about a one to two day supply on hand - and could cause hospitals to triage blood products, prioritizing the most critical cases, delaying non-emergency procedures, and causing risks for patients who require timely transfusions, including trauma patients, women giving birth, and patients with chronic blood disorders.

Blood donors, especially those with types O+ & B- blood (the biggest shortages right now), and platelet donors are urgently needed to help ensure lifesaving medical care isn't delayed for patients. 

Basic eligibility for whole blood donation:

• Donation frequency: Every 56 days, up to 6 times a year
• You must be in good health and feeling well
• You must be at least 16 years old in most states
• You must weigh at least 110 lbs.

Basic eligibility for platelet donation:

• Donation frequency: Every 7 days, up to 24 times/year
• You must be in good health and feeling well
• You must be at least 17 years old in most states 
• You must weigh at least 110 lbs.

There are also options to donate Power Red and plasma (eligibility can be found here - https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/how-to-donate/eligibility-requirements.html

Find a blood drive near you: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/find-drive

The need for blood is constant. The supply isn't.

I am proud to recognize Aug. 2 to 8 as Connecticut Farmers Market Week, in conjunction with National Farmers Market Week.

Farmers markets are more than places to shop — they strengthen our local economy, support family farms, improve access to fresh, healthy food, and create vibrant community gathering spaces. Every purchase made at a farmers market helps sustain Connecticut agriculture and keeps food dollars circulating in our local communities.

I also want to recognize the important work of the Connecticut Farmers Market Association, a relatively new nonprofit organization created by farmers market managers from across our state. Formed with the encouragement of the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, the Association provides education, networking, and advocacy to help farmers markets thrive and address shared challenges. Their work strengthens markets across Connecticut and creates even greater opportunities for our farmers to reach consumers.

I encourage everyone to celebrate Connecticut Farmers Market Week by visiting a local farmers market, meeting the farmers who grow our food, and supporting the businesses that make our agricultural heritage so strong. Together, we can continue investing in local agriculture, healthy communities, and a resilient food system.

Click here for a list of farmers markets in the state!