'Blood Emergency' Prompts Blood Drive At Freehold Raceway Mall

FREEHOLD, NJ — Freehold Raceway Mall and NJ Blood Services are teaming up to host a blood drive on Monday, Feb. 17, to replenish the region's blood supply.

The drive comes following a nearly 30% drop in blood donations during the holiday season, officials said.

NJ Blood Services announced a Blood Emergency following the drop, and said the decline has resulted in 6,500 fewer donations and critically low blood supplies across the region.

Donations of all blood types are urgently needed, officials said, with types O- and B- particularly critical, as supplies have fallen to a dangerously low 1-3-day level.

“Blood donations are vital for surgeries, trauma care, cancer treatments, and managing chronic illnesses,” officials said. “Persistent challenges — including inclement weather, flu, COVID, and RSV — have further strained the region’s fragile blood supply.”

Due to holiday breaks and fewer workplace or school blood drives, officials said January and February traditionally see reduced donor turnout, making this an urgent time to donate.

The drive will take place on Monday, Feb. 17, from 12:30-6:30 p.m. at Freehold Raceway Mall’s Outdoor Village between Chico’s & Arhaus.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are strongly encouraged to ensure donor safety and convenience. To schedule an appointment, you can click here or call NJ Blood Services at 800-933-2566.

Freehold Raceway Mall is located at 3710 US 9, Freehold.