30% decline in donor turnout since World Cup activity began raises concerns for local blood supply
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Community Blood Center (CBC) is urging donors to give blood ahead of the July 4 holiday as the regional blood supply has fallen to a three-day level. Since FIFA World Cup-related activity began in Kansas City, CBC has seen a 30% decline in donor turnout, creating additional pressure on the blood supply at a time when hospital need remains high.
As Kansas City welcomes visitors from around the world, summer travel, holiday plans and changing routines are keeping many donors away. CBC and local hospitals are concerned blood inventories could face additional pressure in the weeks ahead if donation levels do not rebound.
CBC is reminding donors that giving blood remains quick and convenient, with donation opportunities across the metro, including donor-dedicated parking and unimpeded access to its Kansas City donor center and surrounding metro donation locations. As a thank-you for helping strengthen the local blood supply, donors who come to give between June 26 and July 7 at a CBC donor center or mobile blood drive will receive a limited-edition t-shirt.
“It’s exciting to see Kansas City on the world stage, but patients still need blood every day,” said Chelsea Tibbetts, Vice President of Operations at Community Blood Center. “We’ve seen significantly fewer donors come through our doors since World Cup activities began, and that decline is putting added pressure on the blood supply heading into one of the busiest travel holidays of the year. While the city is busier than usual, our donor centers and blood drives remain fully accessible, and we want people to know it’s still business as usual when it comes to donating blood.”
Local hospitals and trauma centers are also expressing concern about blood inventory levels heading into the July 4th holiday and are encouraging eligible donors to help ensure blood is available for patients throughout the holiday period.
“As a transplant surgeon, I know the importance of having a robust blood supply,” said Dr. Sean Kumer, Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer, Kansas City Division, The University of Kansas Health System. “For our patients, donated blood isn’t just a resource—it’s a lifeline. We cannot overstate how critical it is to ensure blood is available when it’s needed most.”
“Holidays can prove to be some of our most challenging times in maintaining a healthy blood inventory,” said Gabe Metzler MLS(ASCP)CMSBBCM, Clinical Laboratory Supervisor at Children’s Mercy Kansas City. “I encourage all those who are eligible to donate and give the gift of life. A single donation has the potential to impact multiple lives.”
The donation effort is part of CBC’s summer campaign, Be the Reason Summer Feels Brighter, which focuses on maintaining a stable blood supply throughout the challenging summer months. Learn about summer donation opportunities, donor promotions and locations at savealifenow.org/reason.
Blood donors may give every 56 days, and platelet donors may donate up to twice per month. Recent FDA guidance updates mean more people than ever may now be eligible to give. To learn more or find a donor center, visit savealifenow.org or call 877.468.6844.
FOR MEDIA: Community Blood Center can provide interviews with CBC leaders, physicians and hospital partners, as well as b-roll, photography and tour opportunities at donor centers, blood drives and laboratory facilities. To arrange interviews or obtain media assets, contact Chelsey Smith at [email protected], 816.645.4323.