Vitalant hopes to acquire more donors at the Dec. 5 blood drive in Citrus Heights. Photo courtesy of Vitalant

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - Listing what has changed since COVID-19 could fill a book or burn out over-talked conversations, yet understanding unexpected connections to why some things have changed allows tangible action to help.

Blood drives are no exception.

As a quarterly blood drive prepares to open its doors from 2:30 to 5:45 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, organizers hope to reach more donors. The blood drive will take place at 7009 Van Maren Lane in Citrus Heights.

Vitalant, running the Dec. 5 blood drive, has noted two emergency blood shortages this year, one in January and one in July. 

“Ever since the pandemic, and the resulting increase of people working remotely, it’s been more challenging,” said Stephanie Kresse, a Vitalant account manager. “People are not in the offices, so not at the drives.” 

In the Sacramento region, hundreds of people who previously donated at blood drives at their workplace are no longer in the habit of donating, according to Kresse. 

When fewer people donate blood, even small disruptions to blood donations can have big effects on the supply needed for emergency blood transfusions. Seasonal patterns of life also present challenges, such as changes in summer schedules and the changes right around the corner. Holidays, winter weather, seasonal flu and illness also disrupt regular routines and regular donations.

Committed donors who donate regularly make a life-saving difference. A growing force of new, regular donors could turn the tide. 

Community organizations and businesses who have a physical location can also help meet the need by hosting additional blood drives. Those interested can contact www.vitalant.org/host-a-blood-drive.

Appointments take about an hour and can be scheduled at donors.vitalant.org using the blood drive code SMFR048 or by calling Vitalant at 877-258-4825. Walk-ins are welcome and accommodated if space allows.

Possible donors are encouraged to check Vitalant’s website prior to signing up to ensure they are qualified to donate.

Whole blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, be in good general health, bring a photo I.D. and, if a minor, have a signed parental consent form available at Vitalant.org. Low Hemoglobin count, meaning low iron levels, is a common reason that donors are deferred.

The Vitalant tag line encourages, “Because of you, life doesn’t stop.” Be one of those who keeps a heart beating.