Blood donations at the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center cannot keep up with increased demand from area hospitals, which in some cases is 20% higher than a year ago. Donations simply are not keeping pace.
Blood shortages are not just limited to our area. Nationally, demand for blood is up more than 4% from the first quarter of 2020.
Right now, less than 10% of eligible donors in this country give blood. If just 2% more people stepped forward, blood shortages would end.
The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center is seeing an average of 400 blood donations a day at their seven donor rooms and community blood drives. But they need 600 a day to meet patient needs and rebuild the blood supply, which is critically low. That is an additional 200 blood donations a day to keep up with the region’s growing needs.
The Memorial Day weekend usually sees a decline in donations but an increase in the need for blood, so we would like to ask you to schedule a donation by calling 210-731-5590 or visiting SouthTexasBlood.org.
There’s also good news about the COVID-19 vaccine: You can donate blood after receiving a vaccination, as long as you are feeling well and healthy. There is no waiting period to donate after a COVID-19 vaccination.
As an extra thank-you for those who take the time to give blood Friday, May 28, through Monday, May 31, donors will score double rewards and can choose two $10 eGift cards from 100+ retailers.
To schedule a donation visit, call 210-731-5590 or Visit SouthTexasBlood.org.
Same-day appointments are available at the seven South Texas Blood & Tissue Center donor rooms in San Antonio, New Braunfels, and Victoria, as well as at community blood drives.
