New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS) has officially declared a blood emergency, issuing a desperate plea for donors as the state’s blood supply plummets to a dangerous two-day level
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Trenton NJ, A perfect storm of holiday travel, a “very high” flu season, and relentless winter weather has wiped out more than 10,000 expected donations in recent weeks—leaving 200 hospitals across the tri-state area in a vulnerable position.
Why the Supply has Crashed
According to NJBS, donations have dropped by a staggering 40% below what is required to meet hospital demand. Several factors contributed to this crisis:
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The “Thursday” Holiday Slump: With Christmas and New Year’s Day both falling on Thursdays—traditionally the busiest collection days—the region saw a near-total loss of midweek donations for two weeks straight.
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Severe Winter Weather: Heavy snow and freezing rain across the Garden State forced the cancellation of numerous community blood drives.
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A “Very High” Flu Season: The CDC currently ranks New Jersey among states with the highest flu activity. Record seasonal illness has sidelined thousands of potential donors who were forced to stay home.
National Blood Donor Month: A Call to Action
While January is traditionally National Blood Donor Month, the 2026 observance has shifted from a celebration to a race against time. Acting NJ Health Commissioner Jeff Brown warns that the emergency status creates “real constraints” for patients requiring trauma care, surgeries, and cancer treatments.
“Blood is needed every single day… there is no substitute when donations fall short.” — Jeannie Mascolino, VP of Blood Operations at NJBS.
How You Can Help Right Now
You don’t need to be a hero to save a life—you just need an hour of your time. If you are healthy and eligible, NJBS is urging you to visit a donor center or community drive this week.
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Make an Appointment: Call 1-800-933-2566 or visit nybc.org.
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Be an “All Seasons Lifesaver”: NJBS is encouraging residents to commit to giving blood once every season in 2026 to prevent these cycles of shortage.
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Donate Platelets: Platelets have a very short shelf life (only 5-7 days) and are in especially high demand for cancer patients.
Upcoming Community Drives
| Location | Date | Time |
| West Caldwell (30 Clinton Rd) | Wednesday, Jan 14 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Newark Beth Israel Medical Center | Wednesday, Jan 28 | Various Times |
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I stopped donating when they insisted on taking my social security number, haven’t been back since. Hopefully they aren’t doing that anymore.
Blood donors should be paid.
The ‘non-profits’ hospitals charge the patients for the blood.
Human blood is worth a lot . Ask the elites about it and why there are so many missing children.
They want our blood for free.
Negotiate for top dollar
Brand your blood as high quality and see what you get
Hasn’t the state taken enough blood out of residents already?