BCP Poised to Help Sister Blood Banks in Hurricane Region

September 1, 2005

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