Red Cross sees ‘alarming’ drop in blood donations. What to know in SLO County
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 collisions, all-terrain vehicle crashes, 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 17 (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 and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Where to donate blood or platelets
The American Red Cross office at 2707 State St. in Santa Barbara is the permanent blood and platelet donation center nearest to San Luis Obispo County.
It’s open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday.You can make an appointment online or call 1-800-733-2767 or 805-687-1331.
The Red Cross also hosts blood drives throughout the region. Check RedCrossBlood.org for upcoming blood drives near you.
How do 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 SLO County?
In the SLO County area, you can donate blood, plasma and platelets at two Vitalant blood donation centers.
Here’s where to find them:
- 4119 Broad St., Suite 100, San Luis Obispo
- 1770 South Broadway, Santa Maria
You can schedule an appointment online or by calling 877-258-4825.
Find blood drives near me
Vitalant has two blood drives scheduled in SLO County in the coming days.
Templeton Presbyterian Church,610 South Main St. in Templeton, will host a blood drive from noon to 4 p.m. on Friday, June 12.
A blood drive will also be held at 191 South Oak Park Blvd., Suite 3, from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 13.
Call 877-258-4825 or visit Vitalant online to schedule an appointment.
This story was originally published June 10, 2026 at 11:50 AM with the headline "Red Cross sees ‘alarming’ drop in blood donations. What to know in SLO County."
