New Jersey Blood Donors Urgently Needed To Address Critical Shortage After Winter Storm

State Has Less Than One Week Supply of Red Blood Cells, Less Than A Day’s Supply of Platelets

TRENTON, NJ – The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is urging eligible residents to donate blood and platelets immediately as severe winter weather and a difficult flu season have created a critical shortage.

“Blood and platelet donors save lives – and now, we need every eligible New Jerseyan to step up and join their ranks,” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Raynard E. Washington. “Our health system relies on selfless donors for essential blood products used every single day in emergency surgeries, childbirth, cancer treatment, and countless other medical procedures. That means you can save a life today just by rolling up your sleeve.”

Current supply levels are dangerously low: New Jersey has just a few days’ supply of Type O, A-, and B- red blood cells, and less than one day’s supply of single donor platelets.

Requests from hospitals are currently exceeding the available supply, drawing down blood reserves by approximately 35% over the past month. Without immediate action, patients face serious risk.

Already, three New Jersey blood banks are reporting severe blood and platelet shortages. Nationally, the American Red Cross reported more than 15,000 donations went uncollected due to the winter storms.

Eligible New Jerseyans can learn more and make an appointment to give blood at a blood donation center or drive near them:

• American Red Cross Services
• Hunterdon Healthcare
• Miller-Keystone Blood Center
• New York Blood Center
• RWJBarnabas Health
• Vitalant Blood Services

Individuals who are at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood in New Jersey.