BBH Seeks Donations to Address State’s Blood Supply

To mitigate the drop in summer blood donations, Blood Bank of Hawai‘i (BBH) partnered with Special Olympics Hawai‘i for its “Be a Sport. Donate Blood” campaign from Aug. 24-26.

To maintain a sufficient blood supply for all of Hawai‘i’s hospital needs, BBH aims to secure 120 donations per day on Kaua‘i. Although all blood types are needed and will be used, there has been high demand for B-Positive, O-Positive and O-Negative types.

Additionally, Kaua‘i donations will contribute to providing sports equipment and PPE supplies for Special Olympics Hawai‘i athletes statewide.

“We’re counting on the Kaua‘i community to help us get through the Labor Day weekend strong,” said Todd Lewis, chief operating officer of Blood Bank of Hawai‘i. “We encourage all healthy donors to dedicate just one hour of their time to save lives and help support Special Olympics Hawai‘i athletes.”

The three-day blood drive will take place Aug. 24-26 at Kaua‘i Beach Resort. Hours of operations vary by day:

• Tuesday, Aug. 24 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, Aug. 25 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Thursday, Aug. 26 from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“The Hawai‘i Building & Construction Trades Council’s “Giving For a Better Tomorrow – Every Drop Counts” campaign will also give union members, family and friends on Kaua‘i a chance to represent their union while helping to contribute to Hawai‘i’s statewide blood supply when donating.

BBH follows strict health and safety protocols and procedures recommended by the FDA, CDC and DOH aimed at keeping donors and staff safe. Each donation can save up to three lives.

Healthy donors interested in giving blood on Kaua‘i may register at bbh.org or call 808-848-4770. An appointment is required as walk-ins can no longer be accommodated. Drive dates and times are subject to change. Individuals with questions about operations during COVID-19 may visit bbh.org/COVID-19 or connect via social media at @BloodBankHawaii.