The pandemic has worsened an already dire shortage of blood across the nation.

Donating blood is a great way to give back, but a large group hasn’t been able to do so for decades until recently.

You hear it often: There’s a need for blood donors -- but there’s apparently a particular need for the Black community to step up and donate.

The Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets rolled up their sleeves today to help those in need.

They attribute that to rising trauma cases, transplants and surgeries.

ROANOKE, Va – The American Red Cross is asking for blood to help fulfill an increase in need caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Winter months and flu season are typically the busiest time of year for the organization and that need has on grown as the pandemic continues. There are several blood drives set to happen in our area in the coming weeks. Upcoming blood donation opportunities (Feb. 1-15)Bedford CountyBedford2/8/2021: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Bedford County Gym, 1059 Turning Point RdMoneta2/4/2021: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., YMCA Smith Mountain Lake, 293 First Watch DriveBotetourt CountyDaleville2/11/2021: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Botetourt Family YMCA, 115 Shenandoah AvenueFincastle2/2/2021: 3 p.m. - 7 p.m., Fincastle Baptist Church, 7330. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.