National Blood Donor Month—How to Donate

It’s January! And that means it’s National Blood Donor Awareness Month.

The coronavirus pandemic has taken a terrible toll on many facets of life as we knew it—including blood donation. This has resulted in critical blood supply shortages. Blood drives have been canceled, and regular donations have come to a halt.

U.S. News says, “According to the New York Blood Center, which provides blood to hospitals in the greater New York City area, the gap between blood needed and what's being donated is now averaging around 8,000 donations per month. Pre-pandemic, some 550 community blood drives were hosted each month in the region, compared with a current average of about 280, the NYBC reports. Across the nation, more than 37,000 blood drives have been canceled.”

What can you do?

Donate. Find out where to donate blood. According to the American Red Cross, “Blood donation appointments can be made by downloading the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or to receive more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.”

Spread the word. Share on social media about the news of blood drives in your area. Post a graphic or photo and get the word out about the importance of blood donation.

Organize a drive. If there are no blood drives near you, learn how to host your own.

If you’re making resolutions in this new year, resolve to donate blood. You can save lives.