As many Americans turn their attention to filling their schedules with summer activities, Vitalant is urging all those who are eligible to first help patients and alleviate a critical blood shortage by making an appointment to donate.
All blood types and platelets are needed not just for emergencies, but for planned surgeries, transplants and medical treatments. Type O blood is most commonly transfused, and type O negative is vital in emergencies when a patient’s blood type isn’t known.
Platelets are also needed every day because they must be used within a week of donation. Platelets often support cancer patients and are used to help form blood clots and stop bleeding.
Appointments are encouraged. Visit vitalant.org or call 877.25.VITAL (877.258.4825) for the most updated information.
Donors who meet all eligibility requirements can give regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. Masks are optional for staff, donors and visitors except where required by local regulations or blood drive host.
Upcoming Blood Drives
» Aug. 4, Santa Barbara, Direct Relief, 6100 Wallace Becknell Road, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
» Aug. 14, Santa Barbara, Saint Raphael Church, 5444 Hollister Ave., 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
» Aug. 16, Goleta, Camino Real Center, 7046 Marketplace Drive, 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
» Aug. 17, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County Office, 105 E. Anapamu St., 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
» Aug. 18, Santa Barbara, La Cumbre Plaza, 140 S. Hope, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
» Aug. 27, Carpinteria, Island Brewing Co., 5049 Sixth St., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Donors can also give at the Vitalant Santa Barbara donation center at 4213 State St.
— Kevin Adler represents Vitalant.