New York Blood Center Faces Shortage; Where To Donate Around PW

PORT WASHINGTON, NY — Nearly two years into the coronavirus pandemic, New York Blood Center is facing blood shortages as omicron cases surge across Long Island.

In a statement released this month, the New Hyde Park-based organization said the region's blood supply continues to be threatened by blood drive cancellations and low donor turnout due to concerns over COVID-19. In response, NYBC is calling on Americans to donate blood as soon as possible.

"A strong blood supply is essential and can be threatened at any time with emergencies such as inclement weather ... and the surge of Omicron cases that we are seeing nationwide," said Andrea Cefarelli, senior executive director at NYBC.

If you want to donate blood, here are a few blood drives coming up in the Port Washington area:

01/17/2022

• Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center — 300 Forest Drive, Greenvale
  • From 1 to 7 p.m.

01/19/2022

• Weber Middle School — 52 Campus Drive, Port Washington
  • From 3:15 to 7:45 p.m.

01/26/2022

• Temple Beth-El — 5 Old Mill Rd., Great Neck
  • From 1 to 7 p.m.

02/06/2022

• The Community Synagogue — 160 Middle Neck Rd., Sands Point
  • From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

2/10/2022

• North Shore University Hospital — 300 Community Drive, Manhasset
  • From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.