EMERGENCY SHORTAGE: Donors urgently needed to stop alarming drop in Red Cross national blood supply

Summer blood donations far lower than needed as hospitals work to protect patient care
MISSOULA, Mont., July 13, 2026 — The American Red Cross is declaring a national emergency blood
shortage as blood supplies around the country fell nearly 25% in June. Blood donors are urgently needed
to help ensure patients receive lifesaving medical care without delay. The shortage is especially serious
for types O positive and B negative blood.
Nationwide, a steep decline in blood donations since the end of May has created a growing gap between supply
and patient need. On top of that, busy schedules and the seasonal loss of school blood drives are driving the
decline which could put patient care at risk if not reversed.
While this appeal is driven by a nationwide need for blood, Montana donors play an important role in helping
patients both here at home and across the country. Every donation strengthens the national blood supply and
helps ensure blood is available whenever and wherever it is needed.
“Montanans have a long history of stepping up when patients need them,” said Montana Recruitment District
Manager Carmen Madsen. “We’re incredibly grateful for the generosity of our blood donors and everyone who
has committed to giving this summer. Their continued support brings hope to patients and families in Montana
and communities across the country.”
The most important way to help end the blood shortage is to book an appointment to give blood by using
the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a
thank-you, all who come to give July 13-31, 2026, will receive a Fandango Movie Ticket by email (up to $15 ticket
price and fees). Additional details can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/July.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the
nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans,
military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and
the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or
CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.