New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS) is teaming up with first responders and medical professionals to host a series of blood drives across the region for National EMS Week from May 17th to May 23rd. The blood drives will honor the lifesaving work of EMS professionals while helping to boost the blood supply during one of the most critical times of the year.
National EMS Week was established in 1974 by President Gerald Ford to recognize the critical role of emergency medical professionals who are often first on the scene of trauma events and first to deliver lifesaving care. In cases of trauma, car accidents, or mass casualty events, blood transfusions are often the difference between life and death and must be available on the shelves before tragedy strikes.
The warmer months bring an increase in accidents and trauma-related injuries. Known as “trauma season,” late spring and summer see a rise in emergency room visits and transfusion needs. At the same time, blood donations typically decline due to travel, school breaks, and holiday schedules, creating a perfect storm for shortages.
This year’s National EMS Week blood drives and their locations throughout New Jersey are listed below:
- East Hanover First Aid Squad – Sunday, May 17th from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
554 Ridgedale Ave, East Hanover, NJ 07936
Sign up HERE
- Hazlet EMS & N. Centerville Volunteer Fire CO #1 – Monday, May 18th from 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm
372 Middle Rd, Hazlet, NJ 07730
Sign up HERE
- University Hospital – Wednesday, May 20th from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Medical Science Building
185 South Orange Ave, Newark, NJ 07102
Sign up HERE
- SouthSTAR – Wednesday, May 20th from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Hammonton Municipal Airport
75 Academy Dr, Hammonton, NJ 08037
Sign up HERE
- NorthSTAR – Wednesday, May 20th from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Somerset Airport
150 Airport Rd, Bedminster, NJ 07921
Sign up HERE
- Sea Bright EMS: In Memory of Gary Letizia – Thursday, May 21st from 1:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Sea Bright Recreation/Community Center
1167 Ocean Ave, Sea Bright, NJ 07760
Sign up HERE
- Marlboro EMS: In Memory of Gary Letizia – Friday, May 22nd from 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm
140 Wyncrest Rd. Marlboro, NJ 07746
Sign up HERE.
In light of recent updates to FDA guidance, more people than ever may now be eligible to give. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, donors can call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org.