Patients Can't Wait: The Blood Supply Needs Help Right Now

The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis for only the second time in its history, as summer blood donations have dropped to their lowest level in four years, creating serious challenges for hospitals and the patients who depend on lifesaving transfusions.

"Patients can't wait" is more than a slogan right now. Blood is needed every day for trauma victims, cancer patients, individuals undergoing surgery and people living with chronic medical conditions. Because blood cannot be manufactured, volunteer donors are the only source of this lifesaving resource.

Thousands of donors have stepped up since the Red Cross announced the emergency shortage earlier this month, but donations are still not keeping pace with hospital demand. Several factors have contributed to the situation, including extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread illnesses that have made it more difficult for people to donate.

While all blood types are needed, Type O blood supplies are especially concerning as the inventory of Type O positive blood has fallen below a one-day supply.

The good news is that donating blood is a simple way to make a direct impact on someone's life. One donation has the potential to help save multiple lives, and every appointment helps hospitals maintain the supply needed to care for patients.

Schedule an appointment today by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

There are special thank-you gifts for those who come to donate.

• Donate by July 31 and receive a Fandango Movie Ticket by email (up to $15 ticket price and fees).

• Donate between Aug. 1-31, 2026, and receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email.

If you've been thinking about donating, now is the time. A small commitment from more donors can make a big difference for patients across the country. Together, we can help restore the nation's blood supply and ensure lifesaving blood is available when patients need it most.