Lexington, Kentucky, December 30, 2025
The Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) is currently dealing with a significant shortage of blood supplies, especially for O-negative and A-negative blood types, which are critical for many hospitals statewide. The decline in donations during the holiday season, along with rising medical needs, has put a strain on resources. KBC is urging individuals, particularly those with O-negative and A-negative blood types, to donate. To encourage donations, the center is offering incentives such as movie tickets and hoodies.
Lexington, Kentucky – The Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) is experiencing a critical shortage of blood supplies, as O-negative and O-positive blood types are at less than a half-day’s supply. The A-negative blood type is also in low supply, with less than a half-day’s worth available for shipment. This alarming situation affects over 70 hospitals across the state that depend on KBC for essential blood products.
The decline in blood donations during the holiday season, combined with a rise in medical needs, has significantly strained the blood supply. To address this urgent situation, the KBC is calling on individuals, particularly those with O-negative and A-negative blood types, to donate in the coming days to help replenish the supply.
As an incentive for donors, the KBC is offering movie tickets at donor centers and hoodies at mobile drives. Donors must be at least 17 years old (or 16 with parental consent), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, be in good health, and present a photo ID. While appointments are preferred, walk-in donations are also welcome. For more information on donation locations and schedules, individuals can visit the KBC website.
Established in 1968, the Kentucky Blood Center is the largest independent, full-service, nonprofit blood center in Kentucky. It provides critical blood products to more than 70 hospitals statewide to ensure that patients receive the care they need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current blood supply situation in Kentucky?
The Kentucky Blood Center is facing a critical shortage of blood supplies, with O-negative and O-positive blood types at less than a half-day’s supply, and A-negative blood also in low supply. This shortage is affecting over 70 hospitals across the state.
Why is there a shortage of blood donations?
The decline in donations during the holiday season, combined with increased medical needs, has led to this significant strain on the blood supply. The Kentucky Blood Center is urging individuals, especially those with O-negative and A-negative blood types, to donate in the coming days to help replenish the supply.
How can I donate blood to help?
To donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health, and present a photo ID. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. For more information on donation locations and schedules, visit the Kentucky Blood Center’s website.
What incentives are being offered to donors?
The Kentucky Blood Center is offering incentives such as movie tickets for donors at donor centers and hoodies at mobile drives to encourage donations during this critical time.
What is the Kentucky Blood Center?
The Kentucky Blood Center, established in 1968, is the largest independent, full-service, nonprofit blood center in Kentucky. It serves more than 70 hospitals across the state, providing essential blood products for patients in need.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Critical Blood Shortage | O-negative and O-positive blood types at less than a half-day’s supply; A-negative blood also in low supply. |
| Impact | Affects over 70 hospitals across Kentucky. |
| Urgent Appeal | Encouraging donations, especially from O-negative and A-negative blood type individuals. |
| Incentives | Movie tickets for donors at donor centers; hoodies at mobile drives. |
| Eligibility | Donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health, and present a photo ID. |
| Organization | The Kentucky Blood Center, established in 1968, serves more than 70 hospitals across Kentucky, providing essential blood products for patients in need. |
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