San Bernardino, Calif – Officials at LifeStream Blood Bank, which provides blood products and services to more than 80 Southern California hospitals, are desperately urging residents to help the community battle back against a severe blood shortage that threatens local patients. 

“Area hospitals do not have enough blood on their shelves to treat patients in need,” said Dr. Rick Axelrod, LifeStream’s president/CEO and medical director. “All blood types are desperately needed. Our type O supply has taken a considerable hit, reaching historic low levels. This is extremely alarming, especially in the summer months, which is already a difficult time for blood collection. We are making an immediate call to action. Hospitals will cancel needed surgeries for adults and children if collections continue to decline.”

To fulfill patient need, LifeStream must collect at least 500 blood donations daily. LifeStream has fixed-site donor centers in San Bernardino, Riverside, Ontario, Victorville, Murrieta, La Quinta, Rancho Mirage, Placentia and Hemet and conducts mobile drives throughout its service area. 

“This critical shortage puts patient care at risk, and we ask our community to stand with those patients and their loved ones by ‘rolling up a sleeve’ and sharing their most precious gift,” continued Dr. Axelrod. “Just one pint of blood can save three lives. By donating, you can bring hope to many local families and their loved ones. Your donation will save a life.” 

Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome at all LifeStream donor centers and mobile blood drives. Donors must be at least 15 years of age (15 and 16-year-olds require a signed parental consent form), weigh at least 115 pounds, present current photo ID and be in good health.  For more information or to make an appointment, call 1-800-879-4484 or visit LStream.org.