Latino blood donors can help make a lifesaving difference
(NAPSI)—The American Red Cross has declared a national blood emergency and is urging all eligible individuals to give blood to help ensure patients receive the transfusions and care they need.
The emergency comes after the nation’s blood supply fell by nearly 25% during June due to a concerning drop in blood donations.
Summer Challenges to Maintaining the Blood Supply
This decline in the blood supply and in donation appointments comes at a time when maintaining a stable blood inventory is especially difficult. During the summer months, schools and colleges are on break, resulting in fewer blood drives that typically help support the blood supply.
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At the same time, more people are traveling and spending time outdoors, increasing the likelihood of accidents and traumatic injuries. According to AAA, fatal crashes involving teen drivers increase by 30% during the so-called “100 Deadliest Days,” which run from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This trend disproportionately affects communities such as the Latino community, which has a larger youth population.
A trauma patient can require as many as 100 units of blood, and it is the blood already on hospital shelves and ready for use that can make all the difference in a life-threatening situation.
The Need for Blood Never Stops
Unlike other medical treatments, blood cannot be manufactured or stockpiled indefinitely. It must be continually replenished because it remains available for transfusion for only a limited period of time—just a few weeks for red blood cells and only a few days for platelets.
A well-maintained blood supply is essential for treating and saving the lives of people facing emergencies, mothers experiencing severe bleeding during childbirth, and patients with cancer who depend on transfusions as part of their treatment.
This blood shortage is especially critical for patients who need B-negative and O-positive blood. “This is where the Latino community can make a lifesaving difference,” said Dr. Maribel Garcia, regional medical director for the American Red Cross. “Nearly 60% of Latinos have Type O blood, one of the most needed blood types and one that is frequently used in emergencies.”
The Red Cross is grateful to Latino blood donors, whose participation increased by 7% last year, and encourages them to continue supporting the blood supply and helping patients across all communities through their blood donations.
Make an Appointment Today
The most important way to help during this blood emergency is to make an appointment to give blood today by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
As a thank-you, all who come to give blood July 13–31, 2026, will receive a Fandango Movie Reward by email (up to a $15 value, fees included). For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/July.
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"“Nearly 60% of Latinos have Type O blood, one of the most needed blood types and one that is frequently used in emergencies,” said Dr. Maribel Garcia, regional medical director for the American Red Cross."