WORCESTER, Mass. - It's been a little more than a year since the Food and Drug Administration implemented new guidelines for blood donor eligibility, allowing gay and bisexual men to donate. 

In the Worcester area, the American Red Cross said they've noticed more people coming out to donate because they feel it's a more inclusive process.

Director of Communications Kelly Isenor said it's something the organization has been pushing for over the years and they're grateful to be at a place where it's acceptable for more people.

"I spoke to a guy last week who has just become, he was deferred for a long time under the MSM policy, he has just started to become a regular blood donor again and now he's considering giving platelets,” said Isenor. “So, it's really inspirational to see people who have previously felt excluded could come out, give blood with the Red Cross, and really know that they're making this life-saving donation."

Isenor said they see an increase in demand for blood in the summer months from hospitals and while there's always a need for blood, there's also a need for more donors.

She said the pool of people willing to donate on a regular basis is shrinking and she's hopeful days like World Blood Donor Day on Friday will help bring awareness.