New year starts with countywide blood drive

As the holiday season winds down, San Diego County Credit Union (SDCCU) is asking the community to start the new year with a lifesaving act: donating blood.

On Tuesday, Jan. 6, SDCCU will host blood drives at seven branch locations across San Diego and Riverside counties in partnership with the San Diego Blood Bank, continuing a relationship that has spanned more than two decades. The timing is critical, as blood donations historically decline during and immediately after the holidays, even as hospital demand remains constant.

“SDCCU is proud to be partnering with non-profit organizations that benefit our Southern California communities,” said Nathan Schmidt, EVP, chief experience officer, and digital channels for SDCCU. “The San Diego Blood Bank is a natural fit for a partnership as they serve hospitals in San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles counties. Since the San Diego Blood Bank relies solely on volunteers for blood donations, we want to provide the community with an easy way to donate near their work or home.”

Post-holiday shortages are a recurring challenge nationwide, and this year is no exception. Travel, winter illnesses, and weather disruptions often lead donors to cancel or postpone appointments, leaving blood banks with critically low inventories.

“Every year there is a dip in blood donations over the holidays due to travel, inclement weather, or winter illnesses,” Schmidt said.

“Unfortunately, this causes donors to abruptly cancel or reschedule their blood donation appointments when there is an already low supply of blood on the shelves. It’s important to visit an SDCCU location and donate on January 6 to help build awareness of this worthy cause and help keep a steady supply of blood in our region.”

The Jan. 6 blood drive will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at six SDCCU locations in San Diego County and one in Riverside County, making it easier for donors to participate without going out of their way. That accessibility is intentional.

“We encourage the community to come together and help,” Schmidt said. “By bringing organizations like the San Diego Blood Bank to select SDCCU locations, we are providing residents a convenient way to help without adding to their already busy schedules.”

For those who may feel hesitant about donating blood — especially first-time donors — Schmidt emphasized the significant impact a single donation can make.

“Donating blood may seem intimidating, but it is a relatively quick and easy process,” he said. “One pint of blood can save up to three lives. Since 2020, SDCCU community blood drives have helped save over 6,300 lives. Donating blood is a simple way to make a big impact in the lives of our fellow neighbors.”

The blood drive is part of SDCCU’s broader commitment to supporting local needs across San Diego and Riverside counties. Beyond its partnership with the San Diego Blood Bank, SDCCU works with a range of organizations focused on education, animal welfare, and financial literacy.

“SDCCU works with local organizations that help shape the lives of those in our communities,” Schmidt said. “We are proud of all the work we do to help our region thrive.”

Community members interested in donating are encouraged to register in advance through the San Diego Blood Bank. More information about SDCCU’s community initiatives is available at sdccu.com/news.