Blood Drive In Hazlet To Meet Emergency Needs

HAZLET, N.J.— After the COVID-19 pandemic reduced the number of blood drives, the blood supply crisis is worsening, according to the New Jersey Blood Services organization.

So they are reminding people of monthly blood drives at the Hazlet Emergency Services North Centerville Volunteer Fire Co. No.1. The next drive will be May 23, from 1 to 7 p.m. at 372 Middle Road in Hazlet.

"We have a severe national blood shortage," said Lynne Ross, account manager for the blood services organization. She added that the blood drive is held monthly on the fourth Monday there.

During the pandemic, she said blood drives at schools were stopped, so that removed an entire source of donations. She said 25 percent of donations came from high school and college students. Also, with more people working from home, corporations no longer had blood drives, again reducing the donations.

"While we like to have a five- to seven-day supply of all blood types, we only have a one-day supply of certain types. We are seeing 2,000 fewer donors each month than we actually need," she said.

Patients who have put off procedures are now having surgeries, so even more blood is needed, Ross said.

Appointments are suggested. For an appointment, go to https://nybc.org/newjerseydrive Use sponsor code 70721. Or donors can call 800-933-2566. The organization is under the auspices of the New York Blood Center, Ross noted, so don't be confused by the website reference.

To encourage donations, there is a sweepstakes offer: Four donors will win a $25 gift certificate. All donors will receive a Rita’s ice cream coupon.

New Jersey Blood Services serves hospitals around the state, and Ross said it provided 100,000 pints of blood to hospitals.