National blood shortage: Donate now

KENNEWICK — For only the second time in history, the American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis. Patients may already be feeling the impact, and donations are urgently needed to save lives.

Summer blood donations are at a four-year low, worsening this season’s blood shortage. All blood types are needed; however, the situation is especially dire for type O blood. The supply of type O positive blood has dropped below a one-day supply. The Red Cross must limit the distribution of these blood products to hospitals.

Now is the time to book a blood donation appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or using the Red Cross blood donation app.

To encourage donations, the Red Cross will email Fandango movie tickets to donors who give by July 31. Additionally, all type O blood donors will receive a bonus $20 e-gift card.

Donors who give blood between August 1 and 31, 2026, will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email.

Despite thousands of people stepping up since the emergency blood shortage was declared earlier this month, donations have not kept pace with hospital demand. Extreme heat, poor air quality, and widespread foodborne illnesses have contributed to lower donor turnout this summer.

“This summer has brought a number of unique challenges that have placed additional strain on our blood supply, creating growing concerns for hospitals and the patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of donor services for the Red Cross. Regional blood donation opportunities between July 27 and Aug. 15:

College Place

August 10: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at Walla Walla University Church, 212 SW 4th St.

Walla Walla

August 3: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Walla Walla Regional Airport Terminal Building, 45 Terminal Loop

August 6: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., The Marcus Whitman Hotel, 6 W Rose St

August 11: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., Walla Walla Presbyterian Church, 325 S 1st Ave.

Find drives in in your area at RedCrossBlood.org,