LA JOLLA, CA — The American Red Cross is urging people to get prepared for emergencies during National Preparedness Month.
“Powerful climate driven occurrences are happening across the U.S.,” said Sean Mahoney, regional CEO of the American Red Cross Southern California Region. “It’s vital that everyone take steps to be prepared.”
The Red Cross urged people to build an emergency kit, make a plan and stay informed. The organization also encouraged people to volunteer, learn lifesaving skills, or donate blood or platelets. “A strong blood supply is key to preparedness for disasters and medical emergencies,” the Red Cross said in a news release.
“Be ready to not only help your loved ones, but your neighbors too,” Mahoney said. “Join us as a Disaster Action Team volunteer, learn lifesaving skills by signing up for first aid or CPR classes, or make an appointment to give blood or platelets.”
Anyone who donates blood or platelets between Sept. 1-18 will get a limited-edition Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. People who donate in September will automatically be entered for a chance to win a VIP NASCAR experience, including two tickets to a 2023 race. Donors will also receive a coupon for a free haircut by email, courtesy of Sport Clips Haircuts.
Red Cross blood drives are taking place across the county, including in La Jolla. See a list of upcoming blood drives below. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at a blood drive.
Blood Donation Opportunities
Bonita
- 9/12/2022: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., Mercy Air 5, 580 Airport Road
- 9/15/2022: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., Oceanside Masonic Center, 511 Eucalyptus
San Diego
- American Red Cross Kearny Mesa Blood Donation Center, 4229 Ponderosa Ave., Suite C (see RedCrossBlood.org for hours)
- 9/6/2022: 11:30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Civita Park, 7960 Civita Blvd.
- 9/6/2022: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., Rancho Penasquitos Library, 13330 Salmon River Road
- 9/7/2022: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., University Center, 5998 Alcala Park
- 9/8/2022: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Jersey Mike’s North Clairemont, 7420 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.
- 9/8/2022: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Vividion Therapeutics, 5820 Nancy Ridge Drive
- 9/12/2022: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Mission Valley YMCA, 5505 Friars Road
- 9/14/2022: 10:15 a.m. – 3:45 p.m., Rock Church City Heights, 4001 El Cajon Blvd.
- 9/15/2022: 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., 4757 Nexus Center Drive, 4757 Nexus Center Drive
- 9/16/2022: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., AVA Pacific Beach, 3883 Ingraham St.
San Marcos
- 9/18/2022: 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Hope Worldwide North County Albertsons, 1571 San Elijo Road
Spring Valley
- 9/11/2022: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., New Life Baptist Church, 9255 Lamar St.
What To Know About Giving Blood
All blood types are needed. Interested in donating? Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) for more information or to make an appointment.
A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.
Individuals who are 17 in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Donors can save time by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive.