Blood Drive Set For Malibu Amid Worst Blood Shortage In Decades

MALIBU, CA — The city and American Red Cross are planning a blood drive, which comes after the organization declared an emergency blood shortage earlier this year.

The Red Cross in January said it the number of people donating blood through the organization had fallen about 40 percent in the last 20 years, reaching its lowest level in two decades over the winter.

"Donated blood is badly needed every day for surgeries, emergencies, regular medical procedures, as well as for major emergencies such as earthquakes, hurricanes, shootings or terrorist attacks," the city said.

The Community Blood Drive is set for June 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at City Hall, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road.

Donors are asked to register in advance on the Red Cross' website using sponsor code “CityofMalibu.” Residents should bring a photo ID, drink plenty of water and eat well before and after giving flood.

More information is available by calling 818-200-3445.