San Diego City Wire

The County of San Diego has commenced its 41st annual springtime blood drive, a month-long event aimed at addressing the critical need for blood donations in the community. The event was launched Tuesday at the County Administration Center in downtown San Diego, alongside the San Diego Blood Bank’s mobile donation center.

Dr. Jennifer Tuteur, San Diego County’s Chief Medical Officer, emphasized the significance of the drive. "As a family physician, I have seen many lives saved with blood transfusions— including babies in the NICU, trauma victims and those being treated for cancer," Tuteur stated. "I have witnessed how donated blood saves lives and believe the act of donating is one of the greatest gifts you can give."

The San Diego Blood Bank, in partnership with the County’s Community Guardians Program, aims to establish a consistent supply of donated blood. The initiative includes around a dozen organizations that promote blood donation and engage with diverse audiences across San Diego. In the past nine months, the program has connected with over 110,000 people through various platforms, including social media and email.

According to America's Blood Centers, only 3% of Americans donate blood each year, leading to frequent shortages. The County's annual blood drive, which is one of the largest organized by the San Diego Blood Bank, is open to both County and non-County employees.

Appointments can be booked at several County locations, organized by region, including central, downtown, east, north, and south areas, with specific dates and times available for each location.