Community Blood Drive To Be Held In Redwood City

REDWOOD CITY, CA — The demand for blood hasn't decreased during the pandemic, and a local health facility is asking the public to help boost its supply.

Stanford Blood Center will host a community blood drive next week at the Redwood City Woman's Club.

The blood drive will be held Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The "bloodmobile" will be parked at 149 Clinton Street.

Stanford Blood Center acknowledged in a news release that Bay Area residents have safety concerns as counties move into more restrictive tiers and new stay-at-home orders are implemented, but it said it is taking measures to ensure donor safety including enforcing social distancing guidelines, and notes that blood donation is considered a "essential activity."

"We want to reassure the public that the safety of our donors is a top priority and we have measures in place to ensure blood donation continues to be a safe process for everyone onsite," Stanford Blood Center said in a statement.

"Blood donation remains an essential activity."

Donors in advance of visiting the blood drive are advised to eat well, stay hydrated and arrive with their donor ID.

First time donors or returning donors without a donor ID card should bring a valid state-issued photo ID.

Donors with all blood types are always welcomed and appreciated, but there's always a special need for type O blood. O negative donors are universal donors, (meaning anyone can receive O- blood no matter their type,) and O- is often used for trauma and pediatric patients.

Please note that walk-in availability may be limited, so donors are encouraged to make an appointment by visiting here or by calling (888) 723-7831.

Donors will be required to wear a mask.