St. Paul, MN—Although the demand for blood is constant, local and national events significantly affect the ability of donors to give. Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) is facing a critical challenge meeting the needs of its hospital partners.

Before COVID-19, donors could stop by community blood drives at convenient locations like high schools, colleges, offices, and places of worship. It has been nearly one year since these groups had to cancel their blood drives due to COVID-19, and fewer than 50% have been able to resume these life-saving events. Despite this tremendous decrease in blood drives and blood donations, patients in community hospitals continue to need transfusions.

Memorial Blood Centers has a significant need for donors of all blood types.

“We are encouraged by the number of people who are getting vaccinated each day and look forward to the return of more donors and more blood drives,” said Kathy Geist, Senior Executive Director. “Memorial Blood Centers relies on the community to help us support patients in need through blood donation.” A small number of community blood drives have resumed with enhanced precautions, and MBC is strongly encouraging donors to make appointments to visit a blood drive or donor center.

“It’s been a year since we began implementing significant safety protocols at our donor centers. We have extended those safety measures at the community blood drives that have been able to restart,” said Kathy Geist.

Visit MBC.ORG to find your nearest blood drive or donor center, or to make an appointment.