HOLMDEL, NJ — A community blood drive is set to take place toward the end of July amidst an emergency blood shortage.
According to the New York Blood Center (NYBC), an unprecedented second blood emergency has come after the regional blood supply fell to its lowest level since the COVID-19 Pandemic.
"This unprecedented second blood emergency is due to a combination of factors," NYBC said. "Including extreme heat, severe storms, prolonged power outages, and ongoing storm cleanup, all of which have significantly reduced donor turnout."
The overall blood inventory has fallen to approximately two days of supply, well below the level needed to reliably support hospitals and patients across the region.
The universal blood type O- is especially needed, as it stands at less than half a day’s supply.
“We prepare for seasonal challenges every year, but the combination of extreme weather, disrupted routines, and low national inventories has created an unprecedented situation,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Chief Operating Officer, Blood & Laboratory Operations at New York Blood Center Enterprises.
“Normally, when one region experiences shortages, blood centers across the country can help support one another,” Cefarelli continued. “Unfortunately, blood inventories are low nationwide, limiting that safety net. We need our local communities to step forward now.”
To help support the local community and need for blood across the nation, a community blood drive will take place at the Holmdel Senior Center on Thursday, July 23.
The drive will take place from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m., and while appointments are preferred, walk-ins are welcome.
To sign up, you can click here and enter the code 73525.
To prepare to donate, New Jersey Blood Services (which is part of New York Blood Center) recommends you:
To learn more, you can visit the NYBC website or call 1-800-933-2566.
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