The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center has issued an urgent appeal for donors with blood types O-negative and O-positive in order to support local hospitals facing critical shortages. To address this need, the organization is coordinating several blood drives across San Antonio with the assistance of community partners.
Community Blood Drives Mobilize Support
As part of their initiative to enhance blood donations, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center is hosting multiple blood drives throughout the city. These events are designed to increase donor participation while ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed. Donors are encouraged to wear face coverings and will undergo a health screening upon arrival to minimize the risk of illness.
On a recent Sunday morning, pre-registered donors began lining up outside the MacArthur Park Church of Christ. One donor, Gretchen Young, expressed confidence in the safety measures. “I was asked how I feel when I came in,” she noted. “Everything’s been sanitized in front of me, so I feel like it’s very safe and probably more secure than prior to COVID-19.”
According to Roger Ruiz, a corporate communications specialist with the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center, the sanitization of equipment between appointments is a priority, especially given that over 120 individuals had registered for the Sunday drive. “We make sure that we can maintain social distancing and that you have a safe donation process when you come through here,” he emphasized.
Incentives for Donors and Ongoing Needs
To further encourage participation, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center is offering incentives to blood donors, including HEB gift cards and car wash vouchers. Ruiz highlighted the importance of community involvement, stating, “We need 100% to show up because that’s all that we’re collecting in the community right now. Patients need our help.”
Young, who has been a regular donor since her son was in the NICU, shared her commitment to blood donation. “COVID-19 really isn’t scaring me away,” she said, illustrating the personal connections many have to the critical need for blood.
The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center serves 48 counties, supplying hundreds of hospitals and clinics across the region. With plans for additional blood drives in the near future, they encourage businesses and organizations with large open spaces to consider hosting events. Interested parties can contact the center at 210-731-5590 for more information.
As hospitals continue to rely on community support for blood donations, the urgency remains high. The appeal for O-negative and O-positive donors is a crucial reminder of the ongoing need for blood supplies, especially in challenging times.
