Red Cross sees ‘alarming’ drop in blood donations. How to give in Fresno area
The American Red Cross has issued an urgent plea for blood and platelet donors after an “alarming” drop in donations ahead of the busy summer season.
“Donors of all blood types are essential in keeping the blood supply strong enough to withstand summer challenges,” the organization said in a May 28 news release.
Scheduled donations, which account for 90% of all blood donations, have dropped sharply in recent weeks, the Red Cross said.
The decline is “especially troubling” because blood collection can already be difficult with end-of-school activities, travel and school breaks, the Red Cross said.
“As a result, the blood supply has fallen by several thousand units in just a week, raising concerns that the decline could worsen as we enter trauma season,” the agency said.
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, severe injuries from car crashes, all-terrain vehicle wrecks, sports and other summer activities skyrocket.
“Every minute matters,” Dr. Emily Coberly, medical director for the Red Cross, said in the release. ”For each minute that passes without blood transfusion, the risk of death increases by 11% for patients suffering from hemorrhagic shock. That’s why having a readily available blood supply is critical.”
Who can donate blood in California ?
Here’s what you need to know in order to donate blood:
- All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.
- A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.
- Individuals who are at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.
- High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Where to donate blood or platelets
The American Red Cross’ Central Valley office is at 1300 West Shaw Ave., Suite 4B,
The organization hosts blood drives throughout the region, although there were none planned in the Fresno area in the next two weeks, as of Wednesday, June 10.
Check RedCrossBlood.org for upcoming blood drives near you.
How can I schedule an appointment?
The Red Cross urged potential donors to schedule an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or using the Red Cross blood donor app.
Donors who come in through Sunday, June 28, receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,500 gift cards.
Where else can I donate blood in Fresno area?
Central California Blood Center operates four donation centers in Fresno County.
Here’s where to find them:
- 4343 West Herndon Ave., Fresno
- 1196 East Shaw Ave., Fresno
- 1010 East Perrin Ave., Fresno
- 645 West Herndon Ave., Clovis
To schedule an appointment, call 559-389-5555 or visit donateblood.org.
This story was originally published June 10, 2026 at 12:47 PM with the headline "Red Cross sees ‘alarming’ drop in blood donations. How to give in Fresno area."