‘Alarming’ drop in Red Cross blood donations spurs plea for donors. What to know

The American Red Cross has issued an urgent plea for blood and platelet donors after an “alarming” drop in donations ahead of the busy summer season.

“Donors of all blood types are essential in keeping the blood supply strong enough to withstand summer challenges,” the organization said in a May 28 news release.

Scheduled donations, which account for 90% of all blood donations, have dropped sharply in recent weeks, the Red Cross said.

The decline is “especially troubling” because blood collection can already be difficult with end-of-school activities, travel and school breaks, the Red Cross said.

“As a result, the blood supply has fallen by several thousand units in just a week, raising concerns that the decline could worsen as we enter trauma season,” the agency said.

Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, severe injuries from car crashes, ATV wrecks, sports-related injuries and other summer activities skyrocket.

“Every minute matters,” said Dr. Emily Coberly, medical director for the Red Cross, in the release. ”For each minute that passes without blood transfusion, the risk of death increases by 11% for patients suffering from hemorrhagic shock. That’s why having a readily available blood supply is critical.”

The organization urged potential donors to schedule an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Donors who come in through June 28 receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,500 gift cards.

Who can donate blood?

Here’s what you need to know in order to donate blood:

• All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.
• A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.
• Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.
• High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Where to donate blood or platelets

Here are the permanent American Red Cross blood and platelet donation centers in the Sacramento area, but the organization also hosts blood drives throughout the region. Check RedCrossBlood.org for upcoming blood drives near you.

• Sacramento: 1565 Exposition Blvd., 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call 1-800-733-2767 or 916-993-7070 to schedule an appoinment.
• Stockton: 2888 March Lane, 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m Saturday and Sunday. Call 1-800-733-2767 to schedule an appointment.
• El Dorado, Placer, Yolo and Yuba counties do not have dedicated American Red Cross donation centers but offer mobile blood drives throughout their communities.

This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 9:46 AM.