All blood types needed as blood supply drops below 2-day inventory; O-negative and O-positive critically low
KANSAS CITY – Community Blood Center (CBC) has declared a blood emergency in Kansas City and the surrounding area as the region’s blood supply drops below a 2-day inventory, far below the 7-day supply needed to meet hospital and patient needs. While all blood types are urgently needed, the shortage is especially severe for types O-negative and O-positive, which are vital for emergency situations and trauma care.
“We urgently need the community’s help to rebuild the blood supply and prevent this situation from becoming more dire,” said Chelsea Tibbetts, Executive Director at Community Blood Center. “Donating blood is one of the most impactful ways to support our healthcare system and save lives.”
Summer has brought an expected decline in donations, driven by vacations, school breaks, and intense heat waves that have kept donors indoors. Combined with increased trauma cases, the impact on the local blood supply has been severe. “Every time you hear a siren or see a helicopter overhead, there’s a chance that patient will need blood,” said Tibbetts. “We need to make sure it’s on the shelves before they ever get to the hospital.”
Kansas City’s hospitals aren’t alone in this crisis. Blood shortages are a growing concern nationwide. But the solution is local, and immediate. CBC is calling on community members to step up now and ensure blood is available for those who need it.
Dr. Douglas Rivard, DO, Executive Vice President and Physician-in-Chief at Children’s Mercy, emphasized the urgency: “A reliable blood supply is essential to the care we provide every day, from surgeries and cancer treatments to unexpected emergencies and lifesaving procedures. Every donation directly supports the children and families who count on us, and it’s one of the most powerful ways our community can help ensure every child gets the care they need.”
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas is also urging community members to take action, highlighting the essential role of blood donors in maintaining the local healthcare infrastructure. “Donating blood is one of the most direct ways we can save lives in our backyard. The blood emergency we’re experiencing in Kansas City is about real people in our community who need our help,” said Mayor Lucas. “I encourage every eligible resident to roll up their sleeves and donate blood this week. Together, we can turn this crisis around.”
How You Can Help:
- Donate now. Schedule a blood or platelet donation at one of our 8 area donor centers. Visit savealifenow.org or call 877.468.6844. Appointments are strongly recommended at this time.
- Host a drive. Start one at your school, business, or place of worship. Learn more here.
- Spread the word. Invite a friend to donate with you and share this urgent message.
In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. Blood donors can donate every 56 days, and platelet donors can give up to twice per month. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit savealifenow.org or call 877.468.6844.