Increased patient use of O+POSITIVE blood has caused an increased need for donors. Donate now!
New Orleans, La. — The Blood Center (TBC) is calling on the community to donate blood following this morning’s terrorist attack in the French Quarter. During the holiday season, donations typically decline due to busy schedules, allowing regional inventory levels to fall below optimal levels. Emergency blood drives are being organized. See the attachment for locations and hours of operation.
“This is a worst-case scenario for our blood supply, and a stark reminder of the vital role donated blood plays in our daily lives. Availability before an emergency is crucial in saving lives,” said Billy Weales, President and CEO of The Blood Center. “Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by this senseless act of violence. Our local community will make a difference by donating blood, and we must replenish what was used today as we prepare for the Super Bowl, Mardi Gras, and other upcoming events.” It is prudent that the public remain consistently aware that they can give the gift of life to others by donating every 56 days when eligible.
“We are a resilient city and must come together to help and support each other. Donating blood is an easy way we can make a difference. Our blood supply is mostly stable due to our neighbors.” said Dr. Tim Peterson, Medical Director of The Blood Center. It is prudent that the public remain consistently aware that they can give the gift of “life” to others by donating when eligible with just a little time out of a single day every couple of months. We need local citizens to Donate Now and whenever eligible, ensuring our city is ready for any tragedy we may encounter, as TBC must collect 200 to 250 units daily. TBC serves as the primary supplier of blood and blood components to more than 50 hospitals in South Louisiana, South Mississippi and the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
The Blood Center is urging the community to meet this critical need. To learn more about hosting a blood drive or donating, visit TheBloodCenter.org or call 800-86-BLOOD. Stay updated by following TBC on social media @TheBloodCenter.
Thursday, January 2, 2025
- The Blood Center’s Corporate office. (Secured parking will be provided for blood donors) - 2609 Canal Street, New Orleans LA - 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- St Vincent D Paul – 3500 Canal St., New Orleans LA 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Pelican Athletic Club – 1170 Meadow Brook Blvd, Mandeville, La noon – 5 p.m.
The following donor centers will be open 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.:
- Hammond – 1116 McKaskle Drive,
- New Orleans @ UNO – 2000 Lakeshore Drive
- Mandeville – 4350 Hwy. 22, Suite K
- Slidell – 105 Smart Ave.
- Thibodaux – 1107 Audubon Ave. Suite B
- West Bank – 1991 Barataria Blvd
- Columbia, MS – 1111 US-98 Suite B
- Hattiesburg, MS – 4700 Hardy Street
- Ocean Springs, MS – 2939 Bienville Blvd.
- Picayune – 509 Hwy. 11 North
- Metairie Donor Center – 2617 Edenborn, Suite A (Open 7a.m-7p.m.)