Blood Donations—
Isobel Charle, producer, Oregon News Service, a bureau of Public News Service.
As Americans get swamped with holiday chores, travel, and winter weather, some may not have time to donate blood as they usually would. It takes about 1,000 donors a day just to maintain a healthy blood supply for hospitals in Oregon, according to the American Red Cross Cascades Region, which covers Oregon and Southwestern Washington.
Isabel Anderson, regional communications manager for the American Red Cross, said the blood supplies overall are stable for now, but the “O positive” blood supply is dwindling.
“That’s really important because it’s the most-used blood type in hospitals,” Andersen explained. “We’re really looking for people of all blood types, but especially if you have that ‘O positive’ blood type, we’d love for you to come in, roll up your sleeve and donate.”
O positive donors are most in demand
She said O positive is the blood type most needed because it is the most common, found in nearly 40% of the population. People with that blood type are able to donate blood that can be given to all ‘positive’ blood types – meaning it can be used for more than 80% of people.
Anderson said the process takes about an hour and suggested making it a holiday tradition, going with friends or family to make it more fun.
“It’s really so simple and easy, and very quick,” Anderson added. “There are 744 hours in December. Can you give us one – to donate blood and help save lives?”
She said with the Red Cross app, a donor can even track where their blood donation ends up. To find a local blood drive, you can visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter your ZIP Code for a list of blood drives near you.
Also, the Red Cross is still offering gifts for donations. Those who give now through January. 4, 2026, reportedly will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. For details, go to RedCrossBlood.org/Gifts.
Meanwhile, the Red Cross is the primary provider to more than 115 hospitals in Southern California. “In addition to providing lifesaving blood products, the Red Cross mobilizes relief to families affected by disasters, trains people in lifesaving skills, and provides services to active and veteran U.S. military personnel and their families. Donors can feel good knowing that by supporting the Red Cross, they can help family and friends in their communities and across the country,” according to a press release.
