Loma Linda University Health is joining with the American Red Cross this week to encourage Inland Empire residents to roll up their sleeves and help strengthen the nation's blood supply.
A community blood drive will be held Thursday, September 10, from noon to 6 p.m. at the Drayson Center Community Room in Loma Linda. All blood types are welcome, and appointments can be made through the American Red Cross using the sponsor code LLUH.
The local drive comes after a particularly challenging summer for the nation's blood supply. In July, the American Red Cross declared a national blood crisis after donations fell to a four-year summer low. At the time, the organization reported especially critical levels of type O blood and warned that continued shortages could affect hospitals' ability to provide blood products to patients.
Blood donations support patients facing a wide range of medical situations, including traumatic injuries, surgeries, childbirth, cancer treatments and chronic illnesses. Unlike many other medical supplies, donated blood has a limited shelf life, making a steady flow of volunteer donors essential. The Red Cross supplies approximately 40% of the nation's donated blood and must continually replenish its inventory to meet hospital demand.
Organizers of the Loma Linda drive are welcoming donors of every blood type while highlighting a particular need for Black donors to help patients living with sickle cell disease. Blood from donors with closely matched genetic backgrounds can improve the likelihood of finding compatible blood for some patients who require frequent transfusions. The Red Cross currently continues to emphasize the important role Black blood donors can play in supporting people with sickle cell disease.
For Loma Linda and surrounding communities, the September blood drive offers residents a direct opportunity to support patients receiving care throughout the region and beyond.
Those interested in donating are encouraged to schedule an appointment in advance. According to the university's event announcement, donors may also receive exclusive American Red Cross promotional merchandise while supplies last.
The blood drive will take place September 10 from noon to 6 p.m. at the Drayson Center in Loma Linda.
Appointments can be scheduled through the American Red Cross blood donation website using sponsor code LLUH.