New York Blood Center joined elected officials, hospital leaders and community partners on Wednesday at its Brooklyn Donor Center to mark National Blood Donor Month and highlight the ongoing need for blood donations across the state.
Earlier this month, NYBC declared a blood emergency following holiday-related disruptions, severe winter weather, canceled blood drives and widespread seasonal illnesses that sharply reduced donor turnout.
Blood donations in recent weeks have fallen nearly 40% below the level required to meet hospital demand, according to NYBC. As a result, more than 200 hospitals across the tri-state area are operating with less than a two-day supply of blood, officials said.
“Donating blood is one of the most meaningful ways that Brooklynites show up for their neighbors in need,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “As we fight to ensure that Brooklyn is the safest borough to have a baby, blood donation is especially important for the many women who rely on life-saving transfusions during pregnancy and childbirth."
Speakers at the press conference emphasized the urgent need for donations, shared perspectives from healthcare partners and patients. They encouraged New Yorkers to make blood donation a priority in the new year. Attendees included Deputy Brooklyn Borough President Kim Council, New York City Council Member Lincoln Restler, NYBC Vice President of Blood Operations Jeannie Mascolino and NYC Health + Hospitals Assistant Vice President of Clinical Lab and Communicable Diseases Kathleen Blaney.
"Each January, donations decline while patient needs remain steady, and that gap can put lives at risk," said Mascolino.
To help prevent future shortages, NYBC is urging donors to become All Seasons Lifesavers by making blood donation a regular habit and donating once each season in 2026. The organization also offers donor frequency programs based on donation type to recognize individuals who give consistently throughout the year.
Appointments can be made by calling 1-800-933-2566 or visiting nybc.org. Those unable to donate blood are encouraged to support NYBC through financial contributions or volunteer service. You can find out more here.
