RWJBarnabas Health Urges Blood Donations Amid Shortage, Two Hudson County Drives Set

RWJBarnabas Health is asking the public to donate blood and platelets as New Jersey and the nation face a growing blood shortage, with two upcoming donation drives scheduled in Hudson County.

The health system said the current shortage is among the most serious blood supply challenges since the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospitals across the state are seeing reduced availability of blood products, and seasonal factors including summer vacations, school closures, and fewer community blood drives have contributed to the drop in donations.

“Blood donations are essential to saving the lives of patients every day,” said Ellen Romanowski, Senior Vice President of Laboratory Services at RWJBarnabas Health. “For individuals battling cancer, recovering from traumatic injuries, undergoing complex surgeries, or experiencing complications during childbirth, donated blood and platelets can be the difference between life and death.”

The health system said that while all blood types are needed, an immediate increase in the Type O blood supply is especially critical. New Jersey is a net importer of blood products, meaning the state relies on blood collected from outside its borders to meet hospital needs.

Two blood drives open to the public are scheduled in Hudson County. The first will be held Saturday, Aug. 1, at the Secaucus Recreation Center gym at 1200 Koelle Road in Secaucus, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The second will be held Thursday, Aug. 20, at Jersey City Medical Center in Conference Room 5 at 395 Grand Street in Jersey City, from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Across its system, RWJBarnabas Health transfused 97,977 blood products in 2025.

To find a blood donation location or schedule an appointment, visit giveblood.rwjbh.org or call 732-235-8100 or 908-685-2926.