Bloodworks calls for blood donors as Washington prepares for more surgeries, operations

As Washington prepares to resume elective surgeries and operations, the need for blood donations is expected to rise rapidly, causing for calls from donation centers.

Bloodworks Northwest has warned that the need for blood could soon reach levels seen before COVID-19 as early as next week, according to a news release. Type O blood is especially in demand.

“The sacrifices necessary for a safe and healthy community have been felt and shared by everyone,” President and CEO Curt Bailey said in the release. “After conserving the blood supply in recent weeks, we must rebuild inventory to a higher, resilient level that propels the community toward a safe, sustainable recovery.”

Bloodworks will be using “pop-up donor centers” at temporary venues to allow hundreds of people to donate while still following social distancing rules. Donations are by appointment only and eligible donors who are 16 or 17 years old will need to have a signed form before donating.

A full list of donation sites in Washington and Oregon can be found at bloodworksNW.org. To make an appointment, call 800-398-7888 or send a message at schedule@bloodworksnw.org.

Donation center are located in Bellingham at 410 W. Bakerview Road, Suite 117, and in Olympia at 1220 Eastside St. SE.