A Perfect Storm: Nor'easter Hits During Blood Emergency In The Region

NEW YORK – The New York Blood Center (NYBC) is putting out the call for blood donors following the winter storm that resulted in a drop in blood donations during an already acute blood emergency in the region.

This month marked three years of the COVID-19 pandemic, which completely devastated the U.S. and continues to impact the blood supply. Donor behavior has completely changed since March 2020 and corporate, school and college blood drives have not yet returned to pre-pandemic levels.

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"We are so grateful to the New Yorkers who came out and donated blood last week when we announced the blood shortage," Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at the New York Blood Center, said. "The Nor'easter has put us back even after all of the donations that came in last week when we issued the initial call. This weather has caused donors to cancel their appointments and our partners to postpone blood drives. Please, if you can, come out and donate blood. One hour of your time can save a life."

Blood donors are able give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted eligibility restrictions for individuals who lived in Europe during certain periods of time. To view current eligibility guidelines, visit the New York Blood Center website or call 1-800-688-0900.

While the need is constant, the supply is not. Visit the New York Blood Center website to schedule an appointment to donate, or call 1-800-933-2566.