National Blood Crisis Declared: LifeShare Urgently Calls on Type O Donors

SHREVEPORT, LA — A national blood crisis has been declared, putting hospitals and blood centers across the country at risk of not having enough blood available for every patient who needs a transfusion. Blood centers nationwide are experiencing critically low inventories, and Type O blood is needed most. In response to the critical need, LifeShare Blood Center is calling on Type O donors to donate immediately.

“Every blood donation has the power to save lives, but right now Type O donors are especially critical,” said Mandi Johnson, Director of Community Engagement at LifeShare. “With a national blood crisis impacting communities across the country, we need our Type O donors to step forward now. Their donation will mean the difference between our local hospitals having blood available for patients in our communities or not.”

Why Type O Matters So Much

O-Positive blood is the most common blood type and can be transfused to the majority of patients with positive blood types, making it one of the most in-demand blood products in hospitals. O-Negative blood is known as the universal donor blood type and is often used in trauma situations, emergencies, and for newborns when every second counts.

Because of its versatility and frequent use, Type O blood supplies can be depleted quickly, especially during times of increased demand or decreased donations — like summer. LifeShare is urging all eligible Type O donors not to wait and to donate as soon as possible.

Special Thank-You Gift for Type O Donors

To recognize the lifesaving impact of Type O donors, LifeShare is offering a special thank-you gift. Any eligible Type O donor who successfully completes a whole blood or red cell donation at a LifeShare donor center or mobile drive between July 30-August 13, 2026, will receive a $25 gift card.

The promotion will be available at LifeShare donation sites across Louisiana, east Texas, and south Arkansas. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcome. Donors can schedule an appointment at www.lifeshare.org/give or call 800-256-5433.

Media Contact: Mandi Johnson, Director of Community Engagement, LifeShare Blood Center, 318.671.5850, [email protected]