Blood shortage during holidays

Puget Sound Blood Center (PSBC) is issuing an urgent appeal for people to donate blood in the days leading up to the holidays. Although donations normally dip during holiday periods, this year PSBC is already experiencing critical shortages for some blood types. 

“When schools are out and holiday activities are at their peak, the number of blood donors falls by at least 25 percent,” said David Leitch, director of donor and volunteer resources for PSBC. “With supplies already low for some blood types, the risk of a supply crisis looms over the holidays.”

PSBC is welcoming donors of all blood types between now and January 5 to maintain a strong supply for patients in need throughout the holiday season. Another reason the need is especially high this year: both Christmas and New Year’s Day fall on Thursdays, typically one of the highest collection days of the week. 

“The holiday season is a time of giving, and we are hoping that people – from frequent donors to first timers -- help us to meet the need,” Leitch said. “We’re asking people to schedule just one hour to save lives by donating blood between now and January 5.”

Information about locations and times can be found here. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome. Appointments can be made online or by phone by calling 1-800-398-7888.

The Bloodmobile will be in Richmond Beach on the Saturday after Christmas, December 27, from 10am to 4pm, at the corner of Richmond Beach Road and 20th Ave NW.