San Francisco/Oakland, CA – In celebration of Sickle Cell Awareness month in September, Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is hosting a “101 Heroes Blood Drive” to encourage at least 101 people to give blood on Saturday, September 24th, 2011, from 10am to 3pm at Studio One Art Center in Oakland.

“Why 101? That number is significant because it’s been 101 years since sickle cell anemia was first written about in a medical journal,” said Fred McFadden, Diversity Blood Donor Program Specialist at BCP. “About 98 percent of people suffering from sickle cell anemia are African-American, and patients with the disease may need 15 to 25 blood transfusions each year. Usually, the safest blood for them to receive comes from other African-Americans. To mark Sickle Cell Awareness month, we need 101 heroes to help save lives by donating blood.”

In addition to hosting the blood drive, BCP will be displaying the submissions of the “What Sickle Cell Means to Me” Art Contest at Studio One Art Center. Patients and non-patients alike were invited express their answer through art in any medium.

To add to the family fun and festivities, there will be free food and art projects lead by CoachArt, raffle prizes and more. All blood donors will get a chance to meet basketball star Stephen Curry, during his appearance at the event and receive a free T-shirt.

The “101 Heroes Blood Drive” is sponsored by BCP and Novartis Diagnostics, in partnership with Children’s Hospital & Research Center Oakland, CoachArt, Sickle Cell Community Advisory Council, Sickle Cell Disease Soldier Network, The Links Incorporated, Oakland Technical High School, Be The Match and the California Transplant Donor Network.

What: 101 Heroes Blood Drive with Appearance by Basketball Star, Stephen Curry
When: September 24, 2011, 10am to 3pm
Where: Studio One Art Center, 365 45th St., Oakland

To schedule an appointment to donate blood, visit http://www.bloodcenters.org or call (415) 354-1381.

Blood Centers of the Pacific is the nation’s oldest nonprofit community blood center, providing volunteer blood donations to more than 50 hospitals throughout Northern California.

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Blood Bank of the Redwoods Joins Blood Centers of the Pacific

Contact:Lisa Bloch
415-749-6612

Blood Bank of the Redwoods Joins Blood Centers of the Pacific

San Francisco/Santa Rosa, CA – Blood Centers of the Pacific(BCP) and Blood Bank of the Redwoods (BBR) today announced that BBR is joining BCP, one of the largest blood centers in Northern California, providing lifesaving blood donations to more than 50 hospitals.

BCP, the nation’s first nonprofit, community-sponsored blood center, will increase its service area by nine hospitals in Sonoma, Lake and Mendocino counties, in addition to the 42 it already serves.

Geography and efficiency were key factors in the decision. BCP already covers a wide area around BBR, including counties to the immediate south, east and north of that center. And consolidating functions such as technical and medical expertise, information technology and human resources, will allow the new organization to better gain economies of scale.

“Both our organizations have a long history of extraordinary service to the communities we serve and we are pleased to combine forces to ensure safe blood is always there for patients who depend on it,” said BCP President & CEO, Nora Hirschler, M.D. 

“Joining BCP will allow us to continue our mission of providing excellent service to both our hospitals and our blood donors,” added BBR President & CEO, Cathy Bryan.

The transition to BCP will likely be seamless for BBR blood donors, as they operate similarly. One added benefit to donors however is that they will now be able to earn points with every blood donation towards thank-you gifts and receive free cholesterol testing with each blood donation.

BBR will close its doors June 30, 2011, and come under the BCP name and license. The center will be closed for staff development and will reopen on August 1, 2011, as the Santa Rosa Center of Blood Centers of the Pacific. Some positions at BBR were eliminated however, many staff will remain at that center so blood donors will likely see the same faces they’ve come to know.

Ms. Bryan will remain for a short term as the transition project director of that location, providing guidance as staff works to complete the transition.

Blood Centers of the Pacific—formerly known as Irwin Memorial Blood Centers—was founded in San Francisco 70 years ago as the nation’s first community-sponsored blood bank. Since that time, it has grown to serve hospitals in counties from the base of Silicon Valley in San Jose all the way north to the Oregon border. It is an affiliate of Blood Systems, the nation’s second largest blood nonprofit blood collection organization. BCP has been on the forefront of transfusion medicine research since its early days and today houses the prestigious Blood Systems Research Institute, world-renowned for its contributions in the areas of transfusion-transmitted infections and emerging diseases.

To schedule an appointment to give blood or to learn more about Blood Centers of the Pacific, visit www.bloodcenters.org or call 888-393-GIVE (4483).

Blood Bank of the Redwoods is now Blood Centers of the Pacific. New name, same commitment.

Blood Bank of the Redwoods And Blood Centers of the Pacific Announce Potential Merger

Blood Bank of the Redwoods
Contact: Kent Corley                
707-545-1222

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Contact: Lisa Bloch
415-749-6612

BLOOD BANK OF THE REDWOODS AND BLOOD CENTERS OF THE PACIFIC
ANNOUNCE POTENTIAL MERGER

Boards of Directors agree to discuss merging the two northern California blood centers

San Francisco / Santa Rosa, CA – March 17, 2011 - Blood Bank of the Redwoods (BBR) and Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) announced today that the boards of directors of the two nonprofit blood centers have agreed to discuss merging into a single organization. The announcement was made by Nora Hirschler, M.D., Blood Centers of the Pacific president and CEO and by Cathy Bryan, Blood Bank of the Redwoods CEO and president.

“Today’s economic and healthcare climate dictates that we look at all possible options to ensure that we deliver on our mission today and for years to come,” said Ms. Bryan. “I’ve guided this organization for more than twenty years and we have excelled as an independent blood center in serving our local hospitals and the community. Our approach and expertise fit well with BCP’s commitment to patients, donors, physicians and hospitals.”

If the merger proceeds it would extend the Blood Centers of the Pacific service area to include nine additional hospitals in Sonoma, Lake and Mendocino counties. It is expected that the BBR blood center in Santa Rosa would continue to be a hub of operations for those counties and could expand service east and south to hospitals and donors.

“Both our organizations have a long history of extraordinary service to the communities we serve and we look forward to combining forces to ensure lifesaving blood is always there for patients who depend on it,” said Dr. Hirschler.  “Twelve years ago, BCP affiliated with one of the nation’s oldest and largest non-profit blood service organizations – Blood Systems. This relationship enabled us to better serve our customers while gaining economies of scale that a larger organization provides. We look forward to providing a similar opportunity to BBR.”

During the due diligence period, which is expected to last several months, the blood centers will continue operations without any changes.

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Blood Centers of the Pacific – formerly known as Irwin Memorial Blood Center – is a not-for-profit organization that provides volunteer blood donations to more than 40 hospitals throughout Northern California.  It is the nation’s oldest community-sponsored blood center, with locations throughout the region, from the base of Silicon Valley to the Oregon border.  BCP is an affiliate of Blood Systems, the nation’s second largest blood collection organization. For more information, visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Blood Bank of the Redwoods is a full-service blood center that provides lifesaving blood products to hospitals, multiple clinics and various home-care agencies. Our goal is to be a leader in transfusion medicine, and to provide quality blood products and services to our community in a safe, economical and expedient manner. By partnering with our community of donors and healthcare providers, Blood Bank of the Redwoods is able to maintain this critical community lifeline. Blood Bank of the Redwoods proudly serves Sonoma, Lake, Mendocino, Napa and Marin counties 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information, visit www.bbr.org.

Blood Centers of the Pacific to Serve Children’s Hospital & Research Center Oakland

PRESS RELEASE
Contact:  Lisa Bloch
415-749-6612

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) has been selected as the provider of volunteer blood donations to Children’s Hospital & Research Center Oakland as of December 1, 2010. 

BCP has been providing rare blood to Children’s Hospital in support of its sickle cell and thalassemia programs for several months and will now provide approximately 10,000 pints of blood and blood components each year. This new partnership continues a history of collaboration between BCP and the hospital, as several former Children’s Hospital physicians have gone through BCP’s Blood Banking Fellowship program. 

“Children’s Hospital Oakland’s expanded partnership with Blood Centers of the Pacific will allow us to better serve the children of our community,” said Betram Lubin, MD, Children’s President and CEO.

“We’re honored to be able to support the lifesaving mission of Children’s Hospital & Research Center Oakland,” said Nora Hirschler, MD, president of BCP.  “Both our organizations have a long history of service to our community and we look forward to combining forces to ensure lifesaving blood is always there for the kids and adults who need it.”

Children’s Hospital & Research Center Oakland is Northern California’s only independent not-for-profit regional medical center for children. Children’s Hospital is a national leader in many pediatric specialties and sub-specialties including hematology/oncology, neonatology, cardiology, orthopedics, sports medicine, and neurosurgery. Children’s Hospital is also a premier teaching hospital with an outstanding pediatric residency program and subspecialty fellowship programs. Children’s research program, Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute (CHORI), is internationally renowned for taking state-of-the-art basic and clinical research and translating it into interventions for treating and preventing human diseases. CHORI has 300 investigative staff, a budget of about $50 million, and is ranked among the nation’s top 10 research centers in National Institutes of Health funding to children’s hospitals. To learn more, visit www.childrenshospitaloakland.org.

Blood Centers of the Pacific – formerly known as Irwin Memorial Blood Center – is a not-for-profit organization that supplies volunteer blood donations to more than 40 hospitals throughout Northern California.  It is the nation’s oldest community-sponsored blood center, with locations throughout the region, from the base of Silicon Valley to the Oregon border.  BCP is an affiliate of Blood Systems, the nation’s second largest blood collection organization. 

To learn more or to schedule an appointment to donate blood, visit www.bloodcenters.org or call 888-393-GIVE.

Give blood. Get smart.

It’s always a great time to save lives but during the months of July and August, 2010, every Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) blood donor 18-years-of-age and older, will be automatically entered to win a new Smart Car Passion Coupe!  Give blood, save lives and maybe you’ll drive off in a new Smart Car!

Eight finalists will be randomly chosen throughout the months and will be invited to BCP’s headquarters in San Francisco on September 15, 2010.  There, they’ll each be given a key.  One lucky lifesaver’s key will fit and they’ll drive away in a brand new Smart Car! And for being finalists, all seven others will receive a $100 gas card.

BCP has centers throughout Northern California and runs hundreds of blood mobile blood drives at area businesses, schools, and places of worship.  Simply visit www.bloodheroes.com to find the donation opportunity that’s best for you!

For more details and official entry rules about our Give Blood Get Smart contest, click here.

So give blood.  Get smart.

July 4th Holiday Center Hours

Saturday, July 3rd

No change in hours of operation except Shasta Blood Center closed for whole blood, open regular hours for platelets.

Sunday, July 4th

All centers closed for whole blood

Monday, July 5th

All centers closed for whole blood except for Shasta Blood Center, open regular hours.
No change in hours of operation at centers for platelets, except downtown center, fremont donor site, vallejo donor site, san jose donor site closed.

Tuesday, July 6th

No change in hours of operation except for Cupertino Center: 11:30am to 6:30pm

Donate Blood. Get Carwash.

North Bay Center
7 Flags Car Wash
2270 N. Texas Street
Fairfield, Ca 94533
http://www.7flagscarwash.com

Vallejo Donor Site
7 Flags Car Wash
135 Valle Vista Ave.
Vallejo, Ca 94590
http://www.7flagscarwash.com

Marin Blood Center and Novato Donor Site
Matt & Jeff’s Car Wash
125 Vintage Way
Novato, Ca 94945
http://www.mattandjeffscarwash.com

Redwood City Center
Ducky?s Car Wash
716 North San Mateo Dr.
San Mateo, CA 94401
http://www.duckyscarwash.com

Cupertino Center and San Jose Donor Site (starts from February 22nd, 2010)
Harv’s Car Wash
3655 Stevens Creek Blvd.
Santa Clara, CA 95051
http://www.harvscarwash.com

Give blood. Get smart.

It’s always a great time to save lives but during the month of September 2009, every Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) blood donor 18-years-of-age and older, will be automatically entered to win a new Smart Car Passion Coupe!  Give blood, save lives and maybe you’ll drive off in a new smart car!

Ten finalists will be randomly chosen throughout the month and will be invited to BCP’s Irwin Center in San Francisco.  There, they’ll each be given a key and one lucky lifesaver’s key will fit and they’ll walk away with a brand new smart car.  And for being finalists, all nine others will receive a $100 gas card!

BCP has centers throughout Northern California and runs hundreds of blood mobile blood drives at area businesses, schools, and places of worship.  Simply visit www.bloodheroes.com to find the donation opportunity that’s best for you!

For more details and official entry rules about our “Give blood. Get smart.” contest, click here for more information!

Find the Hero in You. Give Blood.

Six Flags Marine World Donates Big to Encourage Bay Area Blood Donors

SIX FLAGS MARINE WORLD DONATES BIG TO ENCOURAGE BAY AREA BLOOD DONORS

Six Flags Marine World in Vallejo, Calif., is partnering with Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP), to encourage more people to donate blood by donating tickets to the park’s popular Halloween celebration – FRIGHT FEST. Six Flags Marine World is also hosting a special blood drive to save lives on Thursday, (Sept. 28) from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. at the park’s main entrance. All blood donors on Thursday will receive a free ticket and a bring-a-friend for half off coupon to Six Flags Marine World’s FRIGHT FEST.

“We’re so grateful to Six Flags Marine World for their generosity in helping us motivate people to donate blood,” said BCP President, Dr. Nora Hirschler. “The Bay Area faces constant blood shortages and we’re hopeful that this partnership will go a long way in making sure blood is available to patients who need it.”

Beginning Sept. 29 and running every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 29, Six Flags Marine World transforms itself from ‘theme park’ to ‘scream park.’ FRIGHT FEST features activities for guests of all ages to take part in, from trick-or-treating for the youngsters to haunted mazes, scare zones and even a zombie-driven funeral procession for the brave, all combined with the Park’s impressive line-up of world-class roller coasters and family rides, amazing animal attractions and sensational shows. Taking place during select times throughout the night at each of the haunted mazes, daring guests wanting to enhance their FRIGHT FEST experience can “eat their way to the front of the line” by feasting on a live cockroach. Those brave enough to savor each bite will enjoy exclusive front of the line access for that attraction for themselves and three other friends or family members.

Blood Centers of the Pacific is a nonprofit organization that provides volunteer blood donations to 40 hospitals throughout Northern California. For more information, visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Contact: Lisa Bloch, BCP
415-749-6612
Paul Garcia, Six Flags
707-556-5227

BCP Reporting Less than a Half-day’s Supply

Blood Centers of the Pacific Reporting Less than a Half-day’s Supply

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is asking for immediate blood donations – especially of Type O blood – to boost critically low blood supplies. As of this morning, the blood bank is reporting:

A deficit of 420 pints of Type O blood;
Rationing of blood to the 40 hospitals it serves;
Heavy usage of blood due to traumas, including car accidents and gunshots, as well as several organ transplants;
Inability to receive regular blood imports from outside the state, which usually make up 20 percent of the Bay Area’s blood supply; and
Serious concern over region’s ability to respond to an emergency, such as a natural disaster or attack.
If the region’s blood supply does not improve within 48 hours, hospitals will be strongly encouraged to postpone scheduled surgeries expected to require significant amounts of Type O blood.

Typically, the summertime brings blood shortages to metropolitan areas, as many regular blood donors go on vacation and donor groups such as high schools and colleges aren’t able to host blood drives.

Of those people eligible to donate blood, less than 4 percent actually do. To make up that deficit, BCP regularly imports blood from outside the state. However, because summertime shortages are nationwide, the blood center has been unable to receive its regular orders of blood.

Blood Centers of the Pacific is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides volunteer blood donations to patients in 40 hospitals throughout Northern California. BCP has donation locations throughout the region.

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Lisa Bloch, (415) 749-6612

Bay Area Blood Supplies Critically Low

Blood Centers of the Pacific Reporting Less than a Half-day’s Supply

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is asking for immediate blood donations – especially of Type O blood – to boost critically low blood supplies. The Bay Area has been in a serious blood shortage since the beginning of the month and supplies are dangerously low.

In response to the critical shortage, BCP is now rationing blood to the 41 hospitals it serves and has put those hospitals on notice that there might not be enough available blood for procedures requiring large amounts of Type O .

Typically, the summertime brings blood shortages to metropolitan areas, as many regular blood donors go on vacation and donor groups such as high schools and colleges aren’t able to host blood drives.

Of those people eligible to donate blood, less than 4 percent actually do. To make up that deficit, BCP regularly imports blood from outside the state. However, because summertime shortages are nationwide, the blood center has been unable to receive its regular orders of blood.

“Of particular concern at this time is our ability to support organ transplants and/or significant traumas,” said Lisa Bloch, spokesperson for Blood Centers of the Pacific. “Organ transplants can require a tremendous amount of blood and these procedures are put in jeopardy with a critical shortage like this.”

Blood Centers of the Pacific is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides volunteer blood donations to patients in 41 hospitals throughout Northern California. BCP has donation locations throughout the region.

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

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BCP will be open on Sunday, June 18th, 2006 from 9am to 2pm at the following centers:

North Bay Center - Fairfield
Shasta Blood Center - Redding
Peninsula Center - San Mateo
Irwin Center - San Francisco

Nation’s First Community Blood Bank Celebrates 65th Anniversary

Anniversary Bittersweet as Blood Center Braces for Another Summertime Blood Shortage

The nation’s very first community blood bank, founded in San Francisco,is celebrating its 65 th anniversary this month. Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP), formerly known as the Irwin Memorial Blood Bank, opened its doors to community blood donation in June of 1941 and has been helping Bay Area residents give the gift of life to patients in need ever since.

Prior to 1941, the concept of a community blood bank didn’t exist. Although some hospitals had small drawing stations, there was no adequate method of obtaining and storing enough blood for patients who needed emergency transfusions. Two San Francisco physicians, working with the San Francisco Medical Society (SFMS), founded the fledging blood center, which was granted permission to operate out of the basement of the Irwin Mansion in Nob Hill, which the SMFS owned.

Since that time, BCP has grown tremendously, now operating 12 donation centers, hundreds of mobile blood drives and providing lifesaving volunteer blood donations to 41 hospitals throughout Northern California. BCP provides 140,000 pints of lifesaving volunteer blood donations each year.

But while BCP celebrates this special occasion, officials remain deeply concerned about the region’s constant blood shortages. Of those people eligible to give blood in the Bay Area, less than 4 percent do. As a result, BCP must import 20 percent of its blood from outside the state. Blood shortages become particularly acute in the summer, as many regular blood donors go on vacation and the need for blood rises due to accidents and scheduled surgeries.

Donated blood is used to treat accidents victims, new mothers and their babies, organ transplant recipients, cancer patients and many more. To make an appointment to donate blood, visit www.bloodcenters.org or call 888-393-GIVE.

Napa Blood Center Floods

Blood Donors Urged to Give at Nearby Locations

Blood Centers of the Pacific’s Napa Blood Center, located on Soscol Avenue flooded over the holiday weekend, shrinking already low blood supplies for the region. The Napa Center took on more than a foot of water, leaving the Bay Area without an important resource for blood donation.

Blood center staff is reporting that the damage is extensive. Vital equipment and furniture was damaged or destroyed and communications and computer systems are down. Most important, however, is the loss of the blood donations that center sees. Residents come to the Napa Center to donate whole blood and also platelets, which are a precious blood component often used to treat cancer patients. The situation was further compounded when flooding closed major area highways, preventing staff and donors from reaching other collections centers in the North Bay.

The flooding comes at a bad time, as blood supplies throughout the area are already low and hospital needs are exceeding expectations.

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is urging all Napa blood donors to consider donating at its two nearest locations – Fairfield and Vallejo.

“We’re doing all we can right now to clean up the center but we don’t know yet when we’ll be able to reopen it,” said BCP’s North Bay Region Director, Lana Dyson. “We hope residents will consider coming to our other blood centers, as our region’s patients are relying on their generosity.”

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit bloodcenters.org.

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Exotic Erotic Ball Offers Free Tickets to Blood Donors

October 6, 2008
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BCP Detects Area’s First Human West Nile Virus Infection

Infection Detected in Blood Donor

The Bay Area’s first human West Nile virus infection this season was discovered by Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP), as part of its now-routine screening of blood donors.

BCP – which provides blood to 42 hospitals throughout the region – began testing its blood donors for West Nile virus in 2003. This case marks the first known human case this summer for the nine-county Bay Area region.

Most people infected with the virus are asymptomatic and do not become ill from it. However, the virus can be transmitted by blood transfusion to a vulnerable patient – such as a transplant recipient or elderly person – and prove fatal. Detecting the virus is critical in protecting patients’ health and also serves as vital information for county public health departments charged with monitoring and combating the virus.

So far this year, there have been approximately 12 other known cases of human infection in California, including most recently, in Los Angeles County. That infection was also discovered during routine screening of donated blood.

The West Nile screening was added in 2003 to the battery of tests conducted on donated blood and has been extremely successful in protecting the blood supply. Donated blood is also screened for HIV, hepatitis B and C, and syphilis, and a parasite infection called Chagas disease.

The test uses the latest testing technology called nucleic acid amplification technology or “NAT,” which looks for the genetic material of the virus, a method that’s much more sensitive than older antibody tests.

Blood Centers of the Pacific, the nation’s first community-based blood bank, is a nonprofit organization that serves hospitals throughout Northern California.

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Contact: Lisa Bloch
415-749-6612

Area Hospitals Urged to Cancel Some Surgeries

January 4, 2008
Download Press Release

Blood Center Issues Emergency Appeal for Type O Negative Blood

January 3, 2008
Download Press Release

Family Fun Day at BCP!

Bring your family to Blood Centers of the Pacific’s Family Fun Day, celebrating blood donors!  This FREE fun event will feature a jumpy house, hot dogs, snow cones AND your turn to spin a prize wheel, with great gifts like Giants tickets, movie tickets and more!

Blood donations are encouraged but not necessary at this free family event.

Sunday, July 5th, from 10am to 2pm at BCP’s Irwin Center, 270 Masonic Ave at Turk, San Francisco.  For more information, call 415-749-6627 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

World Blood Donor Day Is June 14

Donate Blood and Help Save a Life!

World Blood Donor Day is June 14.  The American Red Cross, Blood Centers of the Pacific and Novartis in Emeryville are partnering to promote a weeklong blood drive with multiple locations. 

All presenting donors from June 8 to June 14 at any of the participating Bay Area locations will be eligible for a drawing sponsored by Cumulus San Francisco. Prizes include a two night-stay at the Hotel Del Coronado in San Diego, a family getaway to Disneyland, and two round-trip airline tickets for domestic travel.

All presenting donors on June 14 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Emeryville can enter the drawing for a getaway, win door prizes including two nights at the Canyon Villa Resort in Paso Robles, tickets to see The Fray, sports tickets and other gifts*, and meet local radio personalities Brian Murphy and Dan Dibley from KNBR (680 AM / 1050 AM), Nikki Blakk from KSAN/The Bone (107.7 FM) and Webster from KFOG (104.5 FM) at a special blood donation event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

WHAT: Donate Blood and Help Save a Life!

WHEN:  June 8-14, 2009

WHERE: Participating Bay Area locations (see below)

WHY: In celebration of World Blood Donor Day and in preparation for the summer months when the blood supply is often critically low, donate blood and help save a life.  Meet local radio personalities and enter to win prizes and giveaways.

HOW: Schedule an appointment to donate blood on June 14 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Emeryville or any of the other participating Bay Area locations from June 8 to 14 by going to www.HelpSaveALife.org/wbdd (Red Cross Web site) or www.bloodcenters.org. (BCP Web site).

Locations include:

• Cupertino
• Emeryville -  (Hilton Garden Inn, American Red Cross) June 11
• Emeryville - (Hilton Garden Inn, American Red Cross) June 14 World Blood Donor Day
• Emeryville (Hilton Garden Inn, Blood Centers of the Pacific) June 14 World Blood Donor Day
• Emeryville (Bay Street)
• Fairfield
• Newark
• San Francisco (Downtown and Irwin Center)
• Millbrae
• Napa
• Oakland
• Pleasant Hill
• Pleasanton
• Redwood City
• San Jose
• San Rafael
• Walnut Creek

*—All drawing prizes are non-transferable and not redeemable for cash.

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Welcome to the Media Room

Welcome to Blood Centers of the Pacific’s (BCP) online media room. Here you’ll find recent press releases, fact sheets, links to videos and more.

BCP also has experts who can speak to several important topics in the areas of:
• blood supply and safety, including testing
• transfusion medicine and safety
• infectious disease, including pandemic research

For media inquiries, please contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), Director of Communications, 415-749-6612.

Blood Centers of the Pacific

(formerly Irwin Memorial Blood Center and Peninsula Blood Bank)

Contact: Lisa Bloch
Phone: 415-749-6612

Our Mission

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is a community-based nonprofit organization that provides blood and blood components to 40 hospitals throughout Northern California and conducts medical research to improve blood safety and patient care.

Our History

BCP was created with the merger of the Irwin Memorial Blood Center, the nation’s first community-sponsored blood center founded in 1941 – and the Peninsula Blood Bank, created in 1942. In 1999, BCP affiliated with Blood Systems, Inc., the nation’s second largest nonprofit blood collection organization.

Providing Blood to Those in Need

BCP collects blood and blood components – such as platelets and plasma – from volunteer donors throughout Northern California at its 12 donation sites and through its blood drives held at area businesses, places of worship and schools. The blood is collected, tested and then sent to area hospitals for transfusion into patients. BCP distributes more than 130,000 pints of blood each year to patients in need.

Other Services Offered

• Autologous Donations (donating blood for oneself)
• Designated Donations (donating blood for a friend of family member)
• Rare Blood Donor Registry
• Immunohematology Reference Laboratory
• Bone Marrow Registry

Conducting Research

The Blood Systems Research Institute (BSRI), housed at Blood Centers of the Pacific, uses state-of-the-art technology to conduct research on transfusion safety and patient care. The department is internationally-acclaimed and its researchers work in tandem with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institutes of Health and the University of California at San Francisco on many ground-breaking projects.  For more information, visit www.bsrisf.org.

Click here for Hospitals Served

Blood Centers of the Pacific Locations

Bay Area Region

• Irwin Center - San Francisco
• Downtown Center - San Francisco
• Fremont Donor Site
• Marin Center - San Rafael
• Mill Valley Donor Site
• Novato Donor Site - Novato
• Cupertino Center
• Peninsula Center - Millbrae
• Redwood City Center
• San Jose Donor Site

East Bay

• Diablo Valley Center

North Bay Region

• North Bay Center - Fairfield
• Napa Center
• Santa Rosa Center
• Vallejo Center

Shasta Region

• Shasta Blood Center - Redding

First National Blood Donation Campaign Launched

Ad Council’s Campaign Targets Youth

NEW YORK, September 13, 2004 – The Advertising Council today joined blood banking organizations, including the Bay Area’s Blood Centers of the Pacific, to launch the first-ever national public education and awareness campaign about blood donation. Geared towards young adults, the public service advertising (PSA) initiative is designed to raise awareness about the importance of and need for blood donation to foster a new generation of lifelong blood donors.

Each year, nearly five million Americans need a life saving blood and critically low inventories nationwide frequently result in public appeals for donations. In the Bay Area, about 60 percent of the population is eligible to donate blood, but only 4 percent does. As additional donor restrictions are implemented and the population ages, the country could lose more and more willing donors, which could cause an even greater threat to our national blood supply.

This thought-provoking new campaign was developed to catch the attention of young adults, especially 17-24 year olds, to increase awareness of the need for regular blood donation and to set the foundation for lifelong donor behavior. Created pro bono by ad agency Euro RSCG Worldwide New York, the campaign includes television, radio, outdoor and Internet advertising and directs young adults to visit a new, comprehensive Web site, www.bloodsaves.com, where they can learn more about the need for a robust blood supply and obtain information and resources to help them donate blood in their community.

According to Nora Hirschler, MD, President of Blood Centers of the Pacific, the Bay Area needs to collect more than 800 pints of blood each day to meet patients’ needs. “We have some of the latest and best medical technology and know-how here in the Bay Area, yet with that comes a need for a robust blood supply.”

Blood Centers of the Pacific encourages media across California to support this campaign by running the PSAs often to inspire young adults to become regular blood donors.

“The percentage of Americans that are eligible to donate blood, but don’t, is astounding. We need to move away from the culture of blood donation under crisis appeals because it is the blood that’s already on the shelves that helps save lives,” according to Peggy Conlon, president and CEO of The Advertising Council. “I am confident that this provocative, empowering advertising will show our nation’s young adults how easily they can save up to three lives and encourage them to become lifelong regular blood donors.”

Titled “Save the World,” the new campaign features young adults discussing the extreme lengths they have gone to try to make a difference in the world in an effort to show how donating blood is an easy way to positively and significantly make an impact. Each PSA concludes with the tagline, “Saving the world isn’t easy. Saving a life is. And just one pint of blood can save up to three lives.”

Per the Ad Council model, all of the PSAs are being distributed to more than 20,000 media outlets nationwide this week and will run and air in advertising time and space that is donated by the media.

“We know that young people today feel a certain futility in their ability to affect the world they live in, and we wanted to use that as a leverage point in advertising to show these young adults that giving blood is an easy way to make an incredibly important difference - saving lives,” said Kevin Roddy Partner, Executive Creative Director, Euro RSCG Worldwide New York.

Blood Centers of the Pacific

Blood Centers of the Pacific is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides blood to 40 hospitals throughout Northern California.

The Advertising Council

The Ad Council is a private, non-profit organization with a rich history of marshalling volunteer talent from the advertising and media industries to deliver critical messages to the American public.

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch
(415) 749-6612 The Ad Council
Ellyn Fisher
(212) 984-1964

49ers & Raiders “Battle for Blood”

Bay Area Football Fans Roll Up Their Sleeves to Show Team Spirit and Boost Blood Supplies

To help boost area blood supplies and to give football fans a unique way to show their team spirit, the San Francisco 49ers and the Oakland Raiders are teaming up with Bay Area blood centers to host a “Battle for Blood.” This first-time event will help alleviate the summertime blood shortage and show just how many fans “bleed for their team” the week of the teams’ pre-season game against each other, Saturday, August 14th at 3Com Park.

From Friday, August 6th through Thursday, August 12th, 49ers and Raiders fans are encouraged to roll up their sleeves at blood centers throughout the Bay Area and at regional blood drives. Fans can “dedicate” their blood donation to their favorite team and be entered into a drawing to win a signed 49ers or Raiders football. The team with the most blood donations will be announced during the August 14th game.

WHAT: First-ever 49ers/Raiders “Battle for Blood”

WHEN: Friday, August 6th through Thursday, August 12th - leading up to the 49ers/Raiders game on Saturday, August 14th.

WHERE: All area blood banks, including the American Red Cross, Blood Centers of the Pacific and the Stanford Blood Center.

WHY: To give fans a unique way to support their favorite team, an opportunity to win team memorabilia and to help boost much-needed blood supplies.

HOW: After donating blood, fans can indicate which team they want their donation counted towards. Results will be tracked during the week and the team with the most blood donations in its name will be announced during the 8/14 game.

*49ers fans who aren’t able to donate blood during the 49ers/Raiders challenge are encouraged to donate Saturday, September 11th at the 49ers training facility in Santa Clara for their 5th Annual “Out For Blood” Blood Drive.

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch
(415) 749-6612

American Red Cross
Sara O’Brien
(510) 594-5205

Stanford Blood Center
Mike Sage
(650) 725-4445

Bay Area Blood Banks Issue Emergency Appeal for Blood Donations

Less Than One Day’s Supply of Blood on Hand for Bay Area Patients

San Francisco/Oakland/Palo Alto/San Jose, CA January 6, 2004 — Blood banks throughout the Bay Area, including Blood Centers of the Pacific, Stanford Blood Center and the American Red Cross are asking for immediate blood donations to boost critically low blood supplies. In the aftermath of the holiday season and with many of their regular blood donors sick with the flu, blood banks are seeing near-record deficits of blood.

Worsening the situation is the fact that Bay Area blood banks have been unable to receive import shipments of blood from other regions, due to a nationwide shortage of blood.

Blood Centers of the Pacific is reporting that it is already rationing blood to the 40 hospitals they serve, with the Bay Area’s other two blood banks considering the same.

“Of particular concern at this time is our ability to support organ transplants and/or significant traumas,” said Dr. Nora Hirschler, President of Blood Centers of the Pacific. “Organ transplants can require a tremendous amount of blood and these procedures are put in jeopardy with a critical shortage like this.”

According to Mike Sage from the Stanford Blood Center, “The situation is extremely critical here. If there are any significant trauma cases, it would be difficult to supply the needed blood.”

“The fact that all blood organizations are joining in issuing this message underscores the magnitude of the situation,” said Kay Crull, CEO of the American Red Cross, Northern California Region.

All eligible donors are encouraged to call today to schedule a blood donation appointment.

• Blood Centers of the Pacific; 1-888-393-GIVE
• Stanford Blood Center;1-888-723-7831
• American Red Cross;1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543)

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch
(415) 749-6612

American Red Cross
Sara O’Brien
(510) 594-5205

Stanford Blood Center
Mike Sage
(650) 725-4445

BCP Poised to Help Sister Blood Banks in Hurricane Region

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) – the Bay Area’s blood center – has several sister blood centers in the Gulf Coast region and is preparing to send blood as soon as it’s requested.

“The Bay Area normally relies on other parts of the country, including the Gulf Coast region, for 20% of its blood,” said Lisa Bloch, director of communications for BCP. “Unfortunately, the Labor Day holiday often brings serious blood shortages here. If local blood donors answer the call, we can boost blood donations and be in a better position to help our sister blood centers in the affected regions.”

National blood banking officials today determined that blood supplies and current inventory levels are meeting hospital needs in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, which continue to affect Gulf Coast and other southern states. However, there is concern that future supplies may dwindle because blood has a shelf life of only 42 days.

The need for blood will be ongoing, especially over the next few weeks, as disaster victims require additional care, as deferred elective surgeries are rescheduled, or if there should be any further emergencies.

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Blood Centers of the Pacific is a nonprofit organization that provides volunteer blood donations to 41 hospitals, including all San Francisco hospitals.

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch, (415) 749-6612

Young Woman Saved by Strangers Gets a Chance to Thank Them

College Student Needed Almost 1,000 Units of Donated Blood

A Bay Area resident whose life was saved by anonymous blood donors got the opportunity to meet and thank some of her actual blood donors. This rare opportunity – dubbed a “patient-blood donors reunion” – was held on Wednesday, August 24th at Kaiser Permanente San Francisco.

This event was particularly timely, as the Bay Area has been facing one of its longest blood shortages in 10 years.
Meghan Daily was a sophomore in college when she needed almost 1,000 units of donated blood after she was diagnosed with a rare blood disease. Treated at Kaiser Walnut Creek, Meghan was in the hospital for three months fighting for her life.

“I received 987 units of blood components during my treatment,” said Meghan, who ironically, ran a blood drive her senior year at Miramonte High school in Orinda. “If there weren’t 987 people to give blood, I wouldn’t be alive right now.”

Meghan, now 23, lives and works on the Peninsula and is completely healthy. She was thrilled by the chance to meet her “angels,” as she calls them. Meghan also used this occasion to illustrate the tremendous need for more blood donors, as well as the miraculous power of donated blood.

“With blood supplies running dangerously low this summer, I’m hoping this event underscored the fact that anyone, anywhere, anytime, can need blood,” commented Meghan. “Thankfully, the blood was there for me, but I’m concerned it won’t be there for others.”

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch
(415) 749-6612

Longest Running Blood Shortage in 10 Years Plagues Bay Area

Critical Blood Shortage Enters Its Second Month

Northern California’s largest blood bank - Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) – is asking for immediate blood donations to boost critically low blood supplies. While blood shortages during the summer are not uncommon, blood bank officials are reporting that this is the longest running shortage in 10 years.

In response to the critical shortage, BCP is rationing blood to the 41 hospitals it supplies blood to.

Worsening the situation is the fact that BCP has been unable to receive the normal amount of imported shipments of blood from other regions, due to a nationwide shortage of blood. Normally, 20% of the Bay Area’s blood supply is imported from outside the region, often from other states.

“Of particular concern at this time is our ability to support complex procedures like organ transplants that can require a lot of blood,” said Lisa Bloch, spokesperson for BCP. “The Bay Area has some of the best medical treatment in the world but many lifesaving procedures can’t take place without donated blood.”

To help entice blood donors, BCP has launched a “Pint for a Pint” promotion. During the month of August, all BCP blood donors will receive a coupon for a free pint of Baskin Robbins ice cream.

BCP is a non profit organization that provides volunteer blood donations to 41 hospitals throughout Northern California, including all San Francisco hospitals.

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch
(415) 749-6612

SF 49ers and BCP Team Up to Save Lives

Players and Cheerleaders Say, “Thanks” to Blood Donors

The San Francisco 49ers are hosting a blood drive to pay tribute to the Bay Area’s blood donors – and to encourage more people to give the gift of life.

The blood drive will take place aboard Blood Centers of the Pacific’s bloodmobiles at the 49ers Training Facility in Santa Clara on Wednesday, June 1 from 12pm to 6pm.

Players and cheerleaders will be on hand to show their support and all blood donors will receive a one-of-a-kind 49ers T-shirt, food and a chance to win a 49ers memorabilia in a raffle.

“We’re thrilled to partner once again with the 49ers for this biannual event,” said Dr. Nora Hirschler, President of Blood Centers of the Pacific. “The 49ers’ support provides a much-needed boost to our region’s blood supply.”

• WHO: SF 49ers and Blood Centers of the Pacific
• WHAT: Biannual Blood Drive
• WHERE: 49ers Training Center Parking Lot, 4949 Centennial Blvd, Santa Clara
• WHEN: Wednesday, June 1, 12pm to 6pm

To make an appointment to donate blood at the drive or for more info, call 650-279-1730.

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch
(415) 749-6612

U.S. Representative Lynn Woolsey to Visit Marin Blood Center

Congresswoman’s Visit to Highlight National Blood Donor Month

United States Representative Lynn Woolsey will visit Blood Centers of the Pacific’s (BCP) Marin Blood Center to thank blood donors and to highlight the need for more of these community heroes during National Blood Donor Month and all year long.

The Congresswoman’s visit – on Wednesday, January 12th – comes at a critical time, as blood centers’ supplies are running dangerously low. Following the winter holidays, blood supplies are greatly depleted and officials are urging residents to donate blood at their nearest center.

Bay Area hospitals require more than 800 donated pints of blood each day for area patients, yet less than 4% of those eligible to give blood actually do.

BCP’s Marin Blood Center has been providing the critical link between those who donate blood and the patients who require this lifesaving gift for more than 43 years.

“We’re thrilled that Congresswoman Woolsey is helping to encourage much-needed blood donations,” said Dr. Nora Hirschler, President of BCP. “Her visit will surely serve to highlight the important cause of blood donation and inspire many to roll up their sleeves and give the gift of life.”

• WHO: Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey
• WHAT: A visit to BCP’s Marin Center
• WHEN: Wednesday, January 12, 2005 at 12 noon
• WHERE: Marin Blood Center, 4050 Redwood Hwy, San Rafael
• WHY: To highlight the critical need for blood donations

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch
(415) 749-6612

Gov. Schwarzenegger Urges Californians to Give Blood

January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month

January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month and with California requiring more than 1.5 million donated pints of blood a year, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has issued a call to citizens to give blood.

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP), which provides blood to 41 hospitals throughout Northern California, has started the new year with a deficit of much-needed blood for area patients. Running particularly low are supplies of blood with negative Rh factors, like type O negative, which can be given to anyone in an emergency.

“The demand for blood is greater today than ever before, and California’s blood supply needs constant replenishment. Accident victims, people undergoing surgery and patients receiving treatment for cancer or other diseases all utilize blood…” Schwarzenegger wrote.

The governor continued, “during Volunteer Blood Donor Month, I urge all citizens to pay tribute to those among us who donate blood for others in need, and I encourage all citizens in good health to donate blood and give life.”

In the Bay Area, it is estimated that 800 pints of blood are needed each day for local patients. But of those eligible to donate blood, less than 4% do.

“We encourage those who haven’t donated blood before to start this January and we hope those who have given in the past will make blood donation a regular gift to their community,” commented Dr. Nora Hirschler, President of BCP.

To make an appointment to donate blood or to find the donation location closest to you, call 888-393-GIVE (4483) or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Blood Centers of the Pacific
Lisa Bloch
(415) 749-6612

BCP Still Reporting Shortage of Type O Blood

Blood Center Opens Sunday to Encourage More Donors

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is still appealing to the public for immediate blood donations – especially of Type O blood. Because the community blood supply remains at a critical level, BCP’s Irwin Center location in San Francisco will open on Sunday.

As of this morning, BCP is reporting only a day’s supply of Type O blood on its shelves. BCP should optimally have a two and a half day’s supply to meet patient needs in local hospitals.

“Our inventory is still not out of the danger zone,” said Nora Hirschler, M.D., President of BCP. “It is important to remember that it’s the blood already on the shelves that saves lives, and it is absolutely critical to have an adequate supply at all times. Any emergency or trauma could deplete our supplies.”

Just last weekend, hospitals reported three liver transplants, several leukemia patients, and a massive trauma requiring more than 150 pints of Type O blood. If donations do not increase in the next several days, hospitals will likely begin canceling surgeries.

BCP’s Irwin Center location at 270 Masonic Avenue, San Francisco, will be open on Sunday, July 15 th, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

BCP must provide 500 pints of blood every day to area hospitals to ensure they have an adequate supply.

To donate blood or to sponsor a blood drive, call 1-888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

BCP is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides volunteer blood donations to 40 hospitals throughout Northern California.

Contact: Angela Woon, BCP
415-749-6698

Bay Area Blood Supplies Critically Low

Blood Centers of the Pacific Reporting Only Two Hours’ Supply

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is asking for immediate blood donations – especially of Type O blood – to boost critically low blood supplies.

Just last week, blood bank officials alerted the public of a possible summertime blood shortage as its inventory of blood supplies declined. As of this afternoon, BCP is reporting only two hours’ supply of Type O blood on its shelves and is unable to fill out orders for Type O blood.

“With the July 4 th holiday last week, many organizations were unable to host blood drives,” said Nora Hirschler, M.D., President of BCP. “If donations do no increase in the next several days, hospitals will likely begin canceling surgeries.”

The shortage is compounded by very high usage in local hospitals. Just last weekend, hospitals reported three liver transplants, several leukemia patients, and a massive trauma requiring more than 150 pints of Type O blood.

In addition, officials report that blood drives scheduled for the next three weeks are 20 percent below what will be needed to meet expected demand.

BCP must provide 500 pints of blood every day to area hospitals to ensure they have an adequate supply.

To donate blood or to sponsor a blood drive, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

BCP is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides volunteer blood donations to 40 hospitals throughout Northern California.

Contact: Angela Woon, BCP
415-749-6698

BCP Braces for a Summertime Blood Shortage

Blood Donors Encouraged to Donate Blood, Platelets; Organizations to Sponsor Blood Drives

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is asking for blood donations – especially of Type O negative blood – and platelets, to avert a summertime blood shortage.

Typically, summer is a difficult time for blood centers like BCP as many regular blood donors go on vacation, and donor groups such as high schools and colleges aren’t able to host blood drives. And with continued high usage from local hospitals during the summer, the need for blood increases sharply, resulting in a blood shortage.

“It’s just the start of summer and our inventory of blood supplies already show signs of decline. Currently we have less than one-day’s supply of Type O negative blood,” said Nora Hirschler, M.D., President of BCP. “Type O negative blood can be given to anyone in an emergency, and it’s absolutely critical to have an adequate supply of it at all times.”

Blood bank officials are also reporting a severe shortage of platelets, a critical blood component used to treat cancer patients, bleeding disorders, and needed for organ transplants. In addition, officials report that blood drives scheduled for the next three weeks are 20 percent below what will be needed to meet expected demand.

“To avoid the blood shortage trend, we’re asking individuals to make it a priority to donate blood and platelets, and organizations to schedule blood drives this summer,” said Dr. Hirschler. “It is important to remember that it’s the blood already on the shelves that saves lives.”

BCP must provide 500 pints of blood every day to area hospitals to ensure they have an adequate supply.

To donate blood or to sponsor a blood drive, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

BCP is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides volunteer blood donations to 40 hospitals throughout Northern California.

Contact: Angela Woon, BCP
415-749-6698

Blood Donors Now Receive Cholesterol Test With Every Blood Donation

In addition to receiving a “mini-physical” at every blood donation, blood donors are now able to learn their cholesterol levels too. As a way to thank blood donors for their generosity and to improve the health of the community, Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) has started providing cholesterol tests on all donated blood. Blood donors can access their “total cholesterol” results via the Web or phone after just seven days of making a blood donation.

With an increased interest in personal health, blood bank officials are hoping that offering cholesterol testing will help motivate first-time blood donors – and keep those who already donate coming back. Keeping blood donors informed about their cholesterol levels will also help ensure their blood can be used for transfusion (high fat content in blood sometimes interferes with infectious disease testing and renders the donated blood unusable).

After each blood donation, a sample will be given a “total cholesterol” test. BCP uses this test because it does not require fasting and it’s important for blood donors to eat a healthy meal before giving blood. The most accurate test, called a “lipoprotein profile,” measures different types of cholesterol levels and is performed after fasting for 12 hours. Blood donors are told that the test performed by BCP simply provides an idea of cholesterol levels and are encouraged to c ontact their doctor for more detailed results.

“All our blood donors are volunteers and we’re excited to be able to provide this valuable test as a ‘thank you’ to them,” said Nora Hirschler, M.D., President of BCP.

Blood donations are used to treat trauma patients, those undergoing organ trans-plantation, new mothers and their babies, and cancer patients, among others. BCP must provide 500 pints of blood every day to area hospitals to ensure they have an adequate supply. BCP, which has centers throughout the region, is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides volunteer blood donations to patients in 40 hospitals throughout Northern California.

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Contact: Lisa Bloch, BCP
415-749-6612

BCP to Open New Peninsula Center in Millbrae

Grand Opening Celebration Scheduled for Valentine’s Day

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) – the nonprofit blood bank serving the Peninsula for 65 years – is opening its new Peninsula Center on Tuesday, February 6th in Millbrae.

The new center, located between El Camino Real and Highway 101, is located at 111 Rollins Road in Millbrae. The 8,000 square foot center features regular blood donor beds and four apheresis “e-Chairs.” Apheresis allows blood donors to donate specific components of blood, such as platelets, which are often used in complex surgeries and for those undergoing chemotherapy. The state-of-the-art “e-Chairs” allow donors to go online or watch DVDs while making their apheresis donations.

The center will be the second largest of BCP’s 12 Northern California donation locations.

To celebrate the new center, BCP is hosting a special Valentine’s Day Grand Opening on Wednesday, February 14 from 11 to 1pm. Millbrae Mayor, Marc Hershman and other local dignitaries, will be on hand to help mark the occasion and guests will be treated to special gifts, including See’s candies. The event is open to everyone.

The Peninsula Center originally opened in San Mateo in 1942 at Mills Memorial Hospital. In 1954, it moved to the grounds of Mills Peninsula Hospital in Burlingame, where it operated until last April, when the blood center moved to a temporary location in San Mateo to allow the hospital to begin its retrofitting construction.

BCP’s Peninsula Center will be open for blood donations:

Mondays, 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays, 11:00 am – 6:30 pm
Fridays, 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Saturday 8:00 am – 2:00 pm

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

BCP is a nonprofit organization that provides volunteer blood donations to 40 hospitals throughout the region, including eight on the Peninsula.

Contact: Lisa Bloch, BCP
415-749-6612

Bay Area Blood Shortage Continues

Critical Blood Shortage Now in its Third Week

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is continuing to ask for immediate blood donations of all blood types to boost critically low blood supplies. As of this morning, BCP is reporting:

• A deficit of more than 400 pints of blood
• Heavy usage of blood due to traumas and several organ transplants
• Inability to receive enough blood imports from outside the state, which usually make up 20 percent of the Bay Area’s blood supply
• Serious concern over region’s ability to respond to an emergency, such as a natural disaster

Blood donations are used to treat trauma patients, those undergoing organ transplantation, new mothers and their babies, and cancer patients, among others. BCP must provide 500 pints of blood every day to area hospitals to ensure they have an adequate supply.

Blood Centers of the Pacific is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides volunteer blood donations to patients in 41 hospitals throughout Northern California. BCP has donation locations throughout the region.

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Contact: Lisa Bloch, BCP
415-749-6612

Bay Area Blood Supplies Critically Low

Blood Centers of the Pacific Reporting Less Than a Half-Day’s Supply

Blood Centers of the Pacific (BCP) is asking for immediate blood donations of all blood types to boost critically low blood supplies. As of this morning, BCP is reporting:

• A deficit of more than 450 pints of blood
• Rationing of blood to the 41 hospitals it serves
• Heavy usage of blood due to traumas, including car accidents, as well as several organ transplants
• Inability to receive blood imports from outside the state, which usually make up 20 percent of the Bay Area’s blood supply
• Serious concern over region’s ability to respond to an emergency, such as a natural disaster

Typically, January, which is also National Blood Donor Month, brings blood shortages to metropolitan areas, as many regular blood donors are hit with the flu and bad weather across the country makes the normal practice of sharing blood more difficult. 2007 has proved no different.

Blood donations are used to treat trauma patients, those undergoing organ transplantation, new mothers and their babies, and cancer patients, among others. BCP must provide 500 pints of blood every day to area hospitals to ensure they have an adequate supply.

Blood Centers of the Pacific is a nonprofit, community-based organization that provides volunteer blood donations to patients in 41 hospitals throughout Northern California. BCP has donation locations throughout the region.

To donate blood, call 888-393-GIVE or visit www.bloodcenters.org.

Contact: Lisa Bloch, BCP
415-749-6612

Publications

Browse through some of Blood Centers of the Pacific’s publications, including Lifelines, our quarterly newsletter for blood donors and blood drive sponsors, as well as Everyday Heroes, our E-newsletter for blood donors. You’ll also find Blood Developments,which provides the latest information on issues affecting blood transfusions and Update, our newsletter for hospitals.

Photos and Videos

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Fact Sheets

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Update - Newsletter for Hospitals

2012 Publications

March 2012

Publication Archive

February 2007

August 2005
March 2005

June 2004

August 2003
June 2003

May 2002

November 2001
May 2001

November 2000
May 2000
April 2000
February 2000

December 1999

Everyday Heroes

Publication Archive

February 2012

October 2011
April 2011
January 2011

October 2010
August 2010
April 2010

October 2009
January 2009

July 2008
April 2008
January 2008

November 2007
July 2007
April 2007
February 2007

Blood Developments

Publication Archive

December 2006
TRALI: An Update

September 2005
Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions, Part 2: Immune and Non-Immune-mediated Hemolysis Associated with Transfusion

December 2004
Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura/Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (TTP/HUS)

August 2004
The Search for a Blood Substitute

March 2004
Detection of Bacterial Contamination in Platelet Components

August 2003
The Transfusion Trigger Updated: Current Indications for Red Cell Therapy

May 2003
West Nile Virus and the Blood Supply: 2003

June 2002
Non-Infectious Serious Hazards Of Transfusion

February 2002
Infectious Risks of Blood Transfusion

Lifelines

Publication Archive

Spring 2012
Winter 2012
Fall 2011
Summer 2011

Winter 2011
Fall 2010
Summer 2010
Spring 2010

Winter 2010
Fall 2009
Summer 2009
Spring 2009

Winter 2008
Fall 2008
Summer 2008
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Winter 2007
Fall 2007
Summer 2007
Spring 2007

Winter 2006
Fall 2006
Summer 2006
Spring 2006

Fall 2005
Summer 2005
Spring 2005

Winter 2004
Fall 2004
Summer 2004
Spring 2004

Winter 2003
Fall 2003

Reports

A History of Saving Lives
A booklet chronicling more than 65 years of saving lives. View A History of Saving Lives.

65th Anniversary Report
Blood Centers of the Pacific celebrated its 65th Anniversary in 2006. View the 65th Anniversary Report.

BSI 2006 Annual Report
View the Blood Systems 2006 Annual Report.