Karin Renard’s task as community coordinator of Ellsworth’s Red Cross Bloodmobiles has always been important.

It has become especially so in this age of COVID-19.

“They’re really desperate for blood,” Renard said this past weekend.

As a result, a local blood drive set for April 17 will continue as scheduled. The drive will be from noon to 6 p.m. at the St Bernard’s Catholic Church.

A news release from the office of U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams said such efforts are especially critical now. In recent days, 6,000 blood drives and 200,000 donations have been cancelled because of fears over the coronavirus.

“You can still go out and give blood,” the surgeon general said. “We’re worried about potential blood shortages in the future. Social distancing does not have to mean social disengagement.

‘We understand public health concerns, but want to stress that donating blood is a safe process and Red Cross blood drives have the highest safety standards.”

Among safety measures, donors and staff will have their temperatures taken. Anyone with a temperature of 99.5 degrees or greater will not be allowed to donate blood. The required six feet of social distancing will be maintained. And staff and volunteers will wear masks, gloves and other protective gear.

Appointments are recommended and can be made by calling (800) RedCross or going to redcrossblood.org