NYBC was joined by local elected officials, hospital leaders, and blood donation advocates to call for urgent action
MANHATTAN, NY – To commemorate National Blood Donor Month, New York Blood Center (NYBC) is urging all eligible donors to give blood amid a post-holiday decline in donations. To help meet this urgent need for New Yorkers, NYBC is proud to announce the opening of its new state-of-the-art donor center at 253 W 35th Street in Midtown Manhattan.
The opening of this modern, conveniently located space comes at a crucial time. The winter months present unique challenges for blood donations as holiday travel, seasonal illness, and inclement weather all contribute to making blood donations less of a priority. Over the last month, NYBC has experienced a nearly 40% decline in donations, resulting in approximately 3,000 fewer collected blood products and a critical shortage of O- and B- blood types.
January is National Blood Donor Month, which aims to raise awareness about the importance of blood donation and recognize the lifesaving impact of voluntary blood donors. Proclaimed by President Richard Nixon in January 1970, this annual observance remains vital to raising awareness and strengthening the blood supply during a critical time of year.
“National Blood Donor Month is an important reminder that the need for blood never takes a break,” said Andrea Cefarelli, Senior Vice President at New York Blood Center. “We are excited to open this new donor center, which provides a convenient and accessible way for Manhattan residents and commuters to give the gift of life. We are grateful for our regular donors and hope to inspire new donors to join this lifesaving mission.”
To commemorate the grand opening, NYBC leadership hosted a press conference at the new location, joined by New York City Council Member Erik Bottcher, local hospital leaders, and blood donation advocates. Proclamations were presented by representatives from U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer’s office, the NYC Mayor’s office, and the Manhattan Borough President’s office.
“On behalf of the blood bank and transfusion services at Mount Sinai West, I am thrilled to welcome the new the donor center at 235 W 35th Street. This addition signifies a strengthened commitment to public health and life-saving care,” said Philip Howard, MD, , Blood Bank Director, Mount Sinai West & Morningside, Mount Sinai Health System “I have faith that the new sight will ignite awareness and altruism within the approximate neighborhoods, so that together we may ensure a steady, safe, and accessible blood supply for all who need it.
“The NYC Health Department celebrates the opening of New York Blood Center’s new and accessible location,” said Health Department Acting Commissioner Michelle Morse, MD. “National Blood Donor Month reminds us that there is always a high need for blood donations to save and lengthen countless lives. We encourage New Yorkers to donate blood and, if they are able to, make donations on a regular basis.”
“NewYork-Presbyterian is pleased to celebrate the opening of New York Blood Center’s new location, conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, making it even easier for New Yorkers to donate blood and save lives,” said Devika Mathrani, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at NewYork-Presbyterian. “Maintaining a sufficient blood supply is crucial for hospitals to care for New Yorkers, and we are committed to raising awareness of the critical need for blood donations year-round and encouraging all who are eligible to donate routinely.”
The new donor center is located just blocks from Penn Station and the Port Authority Bus Terminal, making it an accessible and convenient option for blood donors. Appointments and walk-ins are now welcome for all blood donations. NYBC urges all eligible donors to make an appointment or visit the new Midtown donor center to help replenish the blood supply and ensure patients receive the care they need.
