Mobile Blood Drive Coming To Bayside

BAYSIDE, QUEENS — A pop-up mobile blood drive unit is stopping in Bayside on Thursday in an effort to combat critical shortages in New York City's blood supply.

The nonprofit New York Blood Center will host the blood drive in the Adria Hotel at 221-17 Northern Blvd. from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., according to its website.

Some midday and afternoon appointment slots are still open as of 3 p.m. Wednesday.

Mayor Bill de Blasio last week urged New Yorkers to donate blood if they are able.

The New York Blood Center's supplies became "dangerously low" after donations slowed amid the statewide stay-at-home order meant to slow the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus.

"We need New Yorkers who can give blood to give blood," de Blasio said Thursday. "Literally you could help save the life of a New Yorker by giving blood at this crucial moment."

All of New York City’s permanent blood donation centers are in Manhattan or Staten Island, according to THE CITY.

That means the pop-up units are the only option for many potential donors amid the coronavirus pandemic, when many are avoiding public transportation and are staying close to home.

New Yorkers can schedule an appointment to donate on the website NYBC.org or by calling (800) 933-2566.