Press Releases

As O-Negative Blood Reserves Fall Below 3-Day Safety Level
Our Blood Supply Needs a 2013 Jump Start

January 8, 2013 / New York, NY -- New York Blood Center (NYBC) is asking for help to rebuild an adequate three-day supply of O-negative blood, reserves are currently running at half that, and turnout at blood drives so far in January has been far less than expected.   People with O-negative blood are known as 'universal donors' because their blood can be transfused into anyone. It is found in just six percent of the population, and is often transfused to patients in emergency rooms and trauma situations when there is no time for blood typing. 

'Our donors really came through for us after Super Storm Sandy,' said NYBC Vice President Rob Purvis.  'But then the holidays hit, and we're entering January with less than half of the O-negative blood on the shelves that we need.' Overall, with the exception of O-negative blood, supplies are strong, and NYBC is confident of its ability to provide its 200 partner hospitals with whatever they need.  'But we can't do it alone,' said Purvis, 'and that's why we're asking our donors to roll up their sleeves.'

Each and every day there are patients who depend on the transfusion of red blood cells, platelets and plasma to stay alive. But blood and blood products can't be manufactured. They can only come from volunteer blood donors who take an hour to attend a blood drive or visit a donor center.
To donate blood or for information on how to organize a blood drive
Please call Toll Free: 1-800-933-2566
Visit: www.nybloodcenter.org
If you cannot donate but still wish to participate in bringing crucial blood products to patients in need, please ask someone to donate for you, or consider volunteering at a local blood drive.  NYBC also offers special community service scholarships for students who organize community blood drives during summer months.
Any company, community organization, place of worship, or individual may host a blood drive. NYBC also offers special community service scholarships for students who organize community blood drives during summer and winter months. Blood donors receive free mini-medical exams on site including information about their temperature, blood pressure and hematocrit level. Eligible donors include those people at least age 16 (with parental permission or consent), who weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, are in good health and meet all Food and Drug Administration and NY or NJ State Department of Health donor criteria. People over 75 may donate with a doctor's note.