Donated blood supports patients undergoing trauma care, surgery, cancer treatment and other medical procedures across Kansas and Missouri. Community Blood Center supplies more than 70 hospitals, including several serving residents in and around Platte County.

Nearby hospital partners include Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, Saint Luke’s North Hospital locations in Smithville and Kansas City, Liberty Hospital and North Kansas City Hospital.

The shortage follows several weeks of reduced summer donations, which the organization attributed to vacations, extreme heat and disruptions to normal donor routines. The decline is part of a longer-term trend that has made it increasingly difficult to maintain a stable regional blood supply.

More than 20,000 Kansas City-area residents have stopped donating regularly during the past six years, reducing the region’s active donor base by more than 20%, according to Community Blood Center.

Blood cannot be manufactured and has a limited shelf life, making regular donations necessary to maintain an adequate supply for routine treatments and unexpected emergencies.

HOW TO HELP

All blood types are needed, especially type O.

Nearest donor center:
Community Blood Center
3122 Frederick Ave., St. Joseph

Schedule or find a mobile blood drive:
savealifenow.org
877-468-6844

Most people qualify to donate, including many who take medications. Donors generally must be in good health, be at least 17 years old — or 16 with written parental consent — and weigh at least 110 pounds. Additional height and weight requirements apply to donors ages 16 to 18.

Whole-blood donors may give every 56 days. Platelet donors may give up to twice per month.