Urgent call for donors as blood donations fall 33% below hospital need ahead of July 4th holiday
KANSAS CITY – Community Blood Center (CBC), in partnership with the Kansas City Royals, has issued an urgent call for blood donors as the region faces a critical blood shortage ahead of the July 4th holiday. Blood donations have been trending 30% below what is needed to meet local hospital needs, with types O- and B- at especially critical levels.
As part of a 25+ year tradition, the Royals are stepping up to support Royals Week, a summer blood donation push from June 27 through July 7. As a thank-you, all who come to donate during Royals Week will receive Royals tickets or limited-edition gear, while supplies last. Donors can find out what they’ll get when and where they donate at savealifenow.org/RoyalsWeek.
Blood donations often drop in the summer due to school breaks, vacations, and busy summer schedules, but this year’s decline is steeper than anticipated. Donations are trending 33% lower than what’s needed to meet local hospital demand. Meanwhile, the need for blood often increases during the summer, known as “trauma season,” due to a rise in accidents and emergency room visits. Nearly one in four trauma patients requires a transfusion.
“This year’s summer decline has been steeper than usual, and we’re seeing a critical need for all blood types, especially O-negative and B-negative,” said Chelsey Smith, Director of Public Relations at Community Blood Center. “Summer is already one of the most challenging times of year for blood donations, and this drop in collections could have a lasting impact on the region’s blood supply. We’re deeply grateful to the Royals for helping us spotlight this need and reward donors who step up.”
In addition to the call for blood donations, CBC is calling on businesses, schools, religious groups, and community organizations to step up and host drives this summer. Hosting a drive or volunteering can be just as lifesaving as giving blood.
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.