December 30, 2025

Urgent Appeal for Blood Donations in Kentucky Amid Holiday Shortage

Lexington, Kentucky, December 30, 2025

As the holiday season arrives, the Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) is facing a critical shortage of blood supplies, particularly O-negative and O-positive types. With less than half a day’s supply available, community members in the Louisville area are encouraged to donate blood. KBC has extended operating hours and is offering incentives like movie tickets and hoodies for donors. They are also partnering with GreenHouse17 to support domestic violence victims during this urgent appeal.

Lexington, Kentucky – Urgent Appeal for Blood Donations Amid Holiday Shortage

As the holiday season approaches, the Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) is facing a serious crisis with blood supply levels dipping to dangerously low amounts. With less than half a day’s supply of critically needed O-negative and O-positive blood types, as well as a significant shortage of A-negative, the health and safety of patients throughout the state’s hospitals hang in the balance. For those of us in the Louisville area, understanding how to contribute to this urgent appeal could make a meaningful difference in our community.

The holiday season often sees a decline in blood donations as many individuals are busy with festivities and travel. In this context, it’s vital to promote awareness and encourage local residents to step up and donate blood. Fostering a culture of giving not only benefits those in need but also strengthens our community bonds and underscores the important role individuals play in the health of our shared environment.

Critical Blood Types in Short Supply

O-negative blood, recognized as the universal donor type, holds immense significance in emergency situations when a patient’s blood type is unknown. The urgency for donations is magnified during the holidays due to decreased donor engagement. This decrease results in the current critical shortage, threatening the well-being of patients across more than 70 hospitals in Kentucky.

Donation Centers and Incentives

In light of this urgent need, KBC has extended operating hours at its donor centers. All centers are open on Tuesday, December 30, and will operate on New Year’s Eve from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Donating blood is not only an altruistic act, but it also comes with an incentive; individuals who donate at a donor center by Wednesday will receive two movie tickets, while those donating at mobile drives will receive a KBC hoodie. With options to donate conveniently and rewards to appreciate your generosity, this is a great opportunity to make a difference.

Partnership with GreenHouse17

Furthermore, KBC is collaborating with GreenHouse17, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing shelter and support for domestic violence victims, to maximize community impact during this holiday season. Donors visiting select KBC locations have the option to donate the value of their thank-you gifts directly to GreenHouse17, helping those in need within our community while also addressing the critical blood supply shortage.

Background on Kentucky Blood Center

Founded in 1968, the Kentucky Blood Center is the state’s largest independent, nonprofit blood center, playing an essential role in providing blood products for various medical treatments including surgeries, cancer therapies, and emergency care. With eight donor centers across six cities, KBC relies heavily on volunteer donors to maintain a robust supply of blood for our hospitals. This reliance on community involvement exemplifies how citizens can make an impactful contribution to the health sector.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What blood types are currently in critical shortage at the Kentucky Blood Center?

The Kentucky Blood Center is in critical need of O-negative and O-positive blood types, with less than a half-day’s supply of each. A-negative blood is also in low supply, with less than a half-day’s supply ready to be shipped. This shortage affects more than 70 hospitals across Kentucky.

How can I donate blood to help address the current shortage?

To donate blood, you can visit one of the Kentucky Blood Center’s donor centers. All centers are open on Tuesday, December 30, and will operate on New Year’s Eve from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. They will be closed on New Year’s Day. It’s recommended to schedule an appointment online or by calling 800.775.2522. Donors who give blood at a donor center by Wednesday will receive two tickets to a local movie theater.

What is the partnership between Kentucky Blood Center and GreenHouse17?

Kentucky Blood Center has partnered with GreenHouse17, a local nonprofit domestic violence shelter, to support community needs during the holiday season. Donors at select KBC locations can choose to donate the value of their thank-you item to GreenHouse17, enhancing the impact of their contribution.

What is the Kentucky Blood Center’s role in the community?

Established in 1968, the Kentucky Blood Center is the state’s largest independent, full-service, nonprofit blood center. It serves over 70 hospitals across Kentucky, providing essential blood products for a wide range of medical treatments, including surgeries, cancer treatments, and emergency care. The center operates eight donor centers in six cities and relies on volunteer donors to maintain a healthy blood supply.

Key Features of the Kentucky Blood Center’s Current Appeal

Feature	Description
Critical Blood Types in Shortage	O-negative, O-positive, and A-negative blood types are urgently needed due to low supplies.
Donation Centers and Hours	All KBC donor centers are open on Tuesday, December 30, and will operate on New Year’s Eve from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. They will be closed on New Year’s Day.
Incentives for Donors	Donors who give blood at a donor center by Wednesday will receive two tickets to a local movie theater.
Partnership with GreenHouse17	Donors at select KBC locations can choose to donate the value of their thank-you item to GreenHouse17, a local nonprofit domestic violence shelter.
Background of Kentucky Blood Center	Established in 1968, KBC is the state’s largest independent, full-service, nonprofit blood center, serving over 70 hospitals across Kentucky.