Urgent Call for Blood Donations in California Amid Winter Storms

CAMARILLO, CA — February 3, 2026
The American Red Cross is calling upon California residents to take immediate action to support the urgent need for blood donations as the region grapples with a severe shortage. Recent winter storms have significantly disrupted blood donation efforts, leading to a critical need for all blood types.

The Impact of Winter Storms on Blood Supplies

Since the beginning of 2026, over 500 blood drives have been canceled, resulting in the loss of more than 20,000 blood and platelet donations. The ongoing harsh weather conditions have not only hindered the collection of blood but have also complicated the transportation of these essential products to hospitals across the state.

Why Every Donation Matters

The current blood supply challenges pose a serious risk to patient care. Many hospitals have had to postpone elective surgeries due to insufficient blood products, putting medical staff in the difficult position of deciding which patients can receive treatment. Immediate action is needed to replenish the blood supply before critical situations arise.

Residents in stable weather areas are strongly encouraged to schedule their blood donation appointments now. You can easily do so through the Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). For those in areas experiencing severe winter weather, donations should be made safely once conditions improve.

Incentives for Donors

To further encourage donations, everyone who donates from January 26 to February 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card valid at select retailers. For more information on this initiative, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Heart.

Upcoming Blood Donation Events (February 3-28)

Here are several scheduled opportunities for blood donation across various California counties:

Santa Barbara County

• Santa Barbara:
  • 2/9/2026: 1 PM – 7 PM, American Red Cross, 2707 State St
  • 2/13/2026: 10 AM – 4 PM, UCSB University Center, 1 UCEN Rd
  • 2/18/2026: 10 AM – 4 PM, UCSB University Center, 1 UCEN Rd
  • 2/23/2026: 11 AM – 5 PM, American Red Cross, 2707 State St

Ventura County

• Camarillo:

  • 2/3/2026: 1 PM – 7 PM, American Red Cross Betty R Plotkin Center, 836 Calle Plano
  • 2/17/2026: 1 PM – 7 PM, American Red Cross Betty R Plotkin Center, 836 Calle Plano
  • 2/24/2026: 10 AM – 4 PM, Avalon, 1571 Flynn Road

• Simi Valley:

  • 2/13/2026: 11 AM – 5 PM, Rancho Santa Susana Community Center, 5005 Los Angeles Ave
  • 2/21/2026: 9 AM – 3 PM, Rancho Santa Susana Community Center, 5005 Los Angeles Ave
  • 2/27/2026: 11 AM – 5 PM, Rancho Santa Susana Community Center, 5005 Los Angeles Ave

• Thousand Oaks:

  • 2/9/2026: 1 PM – 7 PM, Thousand Oaks Inn, 75 W Thousand Oaks Blvd
  • 2/11/2026: 1 PM – 7 PM, Thousand Oaks Inn, 75 W Thousand Oaks Blvd
  • 2/18/2026: 1 PM – 7 PM, Thousand Oaks Inn, 75 W Thousand Oaks Blvd
  • 2/23/2026: 9 AM – 3 PM, Sunset Hills Country Club, 4155 Erbes Rd
  • 2/23/2026: 1 PM – 7 PM, Thousand Oaks Inn, 75 W Thousand Oaks Blvd
  • 2/25/2026: 1 PM – 7 PM, Thousand Oaks Inn, 75 W Thousand Oaks Blvd

• Ventura:

  • 2/6/2026: 11 AM – 5 PM, Pacific View Mall, 3301 E Main St
  • 2/10/2026: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM, Knights of Columbus, 36 S. Figueroa St
  • 2/12/2026: 9 AM – 3 PM, El Camino High School, 61 Day Rd
  • 2/24/2026: 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM, Knights of Columbus, 36 S. Figueroa St

Conclusion

The American Red Cross plays an essential role in addressing national blood supply needs, supplying about 40% of the nation’s blood. With current shortages, the organization is appealing to our community for support. All eligible donors are encouraged to step forward and contribute to this life-saving effort.

For more information about the American Red Cross and its programs, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org.