Bloodworks Northwest is running low on blood and platelets, and they are calling for donors to step forward, especially donors with Type O blood.
Currently, their supply of Type O is at its lowest since before the pandemic began, at a 50% decrease.
The shortage is partly due to higher than normal local demand and fewer donations.
Bloodworks Northwest supplies 95% of the blood supply to Pacific Northwest hospitals, and with trauma and wildfire season approaching, a robust blood supply is vital to keeping communities safe and healthy.
There are 1,800 appointments open for blood donations in the next two weeks, and 11,000 openings between now and July 4. For platelet donations, there are 500 appointments open now and 2,500 open before July 4.
Bloodworks Northwest is also offering incentives to donors this summer, from post-donation cookies to sports prizes like game tickets.
Most people 18 and over, in good health and weighing at least 110 pounds are eligible to donate. In Oregon, minors over 16 can donate blood, and also in Washington, with a Bloodworks permission form.
In accordance with COVID safety regulations, masks and photo ID are required. No walk-ins, guests or minors under 16 are permitted at donation sites.
Donor sites can be located and appointments can be scheduled at bloodworksnw.org