Hendrick Regional Blood Center facing critical shortage

Hendrick Regional Blood Center (HRBC) is facing a dwindling inventory of all blood types, with donations down 30% compared to last year.

“While 30% may not seem like a lot to most, to us, it can be detrimental,” said Lauren Spindler, HRBC marketing and business development manager.

Everyone is encouraged to donate this week at the center at 1701 Pine Street. Donors will receive a pint of Blue Bell ice cream as part of Pint for a Pint.

HRBC is open the following hours:

• Monday – Thursday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Friday: 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Saturday: 8 a.m. – noon

Donations also can be made at mobile blood drives, such as at HTeaO on Friday, June 20 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at 4308 Buffalo Gap Road.

Hendrick Medical Center, 1900 Pine Street, also will be hosting a blood drive for employees and the public June 24 – 26 from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. The drive is inside the hospital in Tom Roberts Conference Center.

Donors can enter through the hospital’s main entrance and take the elevator to the second floor to the center. Donors will receive a T-shirt and Crumbl Cookie.

Additional scheduled bloodmobile events in Abilene and the region are listed at hendrickbloodcenter.org. The website also has information about becoming a donor. 

If your business or organization would like to host a blood drive, call Spindler at 325-670-4271.

The HRBC supplies blood to 19 hospitals and medical facilities in a 14-county area.