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Urgent Need

UrgentBloodShortage_7.29.26

National and Local Blood Supply at Dangerously Low Levels

JOHNSTON, IOWA (July 29, 2026) – LifeServe Blood Center is calling on eligible donors to make an appointment to give blood immediately, after weeks of significant declines in donations have led to concerning shortages.

Right now, LifeServe has just a 1-2 day supply of type O-negative, O-positive, and A-negative blood. Other blood types are facing a 2-3 day supply. Without increased donations, this level of supply can lead to situations where hospitals may not have enough blood on hand to treat all patients who need it.

The summer months are traditionally a slower time for blood donations, as busier summer schedules reduce donors' appointments, and high schools and colleges – the source of steady donations – are on summer break. But this summer's challenges go beyond that. In July, LifeServe is collecting about 2,500 units of blood behind expected levels, causing significant strain on supply.  

“This is not just a situation where we need our most loyal donors to step up and donate again,” Stacy Sime, President & CEO of LifeServe Blood Center said. “We need new, first-time donors and those who haven’t donated with us in years to come make an impact on their communities and save lives.”

Blood centers throughout the country are facing similar strains to the blood supply. On Monday evening, the U.S. Surgeon General warned that blood donations are needed in order to maintain an adequate blood supply across America.

Blood cannot be manufactured and has a short shelf life. Thus, the blood supply needs to be continuously replenished. On average, someone needs blood every two seconds.
And just one donation can save or impact up to three local lives. LifeServe supplies blood to more than 175 local hospitals, so donating with LifeServe ensures your donation impacts the lives of people right in your community.

LifeServe Blood Center is asking potential blood donors to make an appointment to give blood at one of our donor centers or a mobile blood drive near them in the next few weeks.

"What we are seeing right now is far beyond the typical seasonal summer dip in blood donations. Our donations are not currently keeping up with the demand for blood from hospitals. Unless this trend reverses, hospitals will need to start making difficult decisions to delay or cancel treatments and surgeries.”
— Stacy Sime, President & CEO

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One donation can help save or impact up to three local lives.

175+

Hospitals rely on LifeServe for lifesaving blood products.

Current Blood Supply

  • Type O-, O+, and A-: Only a 1–2 day supply
  • All other blood types: Just a 2–3 day supply
  • Hospitals could soon be forced to delay treatments and surgeries if donations do not increase.

Why Donate?

  • Blood cannot be manufactured.
  • Blood has a limited shelf life.
  • Your donation stays local and helps patients in your community.
  • Every donation matters right now.
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