How to donate to the Blood Bank of Hawaii

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - September is National Disaster Preparedness Month and to mark National Blood Donation Week, Blood Bank of Hawaii is asking for donations to help boost supplies for emergencies and disasters. O-type blood is especially needed.

Gov. David Ige proclaimed September 4 Hawaii Blood Donation Day.

Hawaii is also part of the Blood Emergency Readiness Corps (BERC), a group of more than 30 community blood centers around the country that help each other in times of disasters requiring mass blood transfusions. Center members are asked to send O-Type blood when they’re on call every three weeks and only when needed.

Around 200 blood donors are needed every day.

“We always like to remind people that it’s the blood on the shelves today that saves lives. Now, the need for blood is constant and ongoing. So we ask people to always make sure that they’re setting time aside to donate blood, making regular blood donation appointments. Like today after your donation. One of the things we ask folks is to rebook that next donation. That way, you’re on our calendar at a time that works great for you. And we’ll be there to welcome you on your next visit,” said Fred McFadden, director of donor services at the Blood Bank of Hawaii. “About an hour of your time, potentially save three lives. Mahalo for your support.”

To learn more about BERC, visit bloodemergencyreadinesscorps.org.

Donors interested in donating can register for an appointment at bbh.org or call (808) 848-4770.

Organizations that are interested in hosting a blood drive or assisting to recruit blood donors can email info@bbh.org.

The Hawaii National Guard will host a blood drive on 9/11.

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