Earlier this month, the American Red Cross held a blood donation drive in front of the Moorpark College Bookstore to address California’s blood shortage.

The American Red Cross has had an extensive and positive relationship with Moorpark College, as the organization plans for blood drives to happen multiple times a year on the college campus.

Jennifer Griggs, a registered nurse and the supervisor of Southern California blood drives, talked about her experiences with blood drives at Moorpark College, which she says are always positive.

“The community is great, everyone is so generous and so nice,” Griggs spoke. “They have such an altruistic nature of wanting to help us out and we are so grateful for their generosity.”

Griggs also emphasized how high of a demand for blood donors there is in California.

“This past month, a message was put out saying that we have a nationwide critical need for blood, especially in Southern California,” Griggs noted.

Griggs explained that the drives are helpful at Moorpark College because the number of volunteers they receive is usually perfect for the crew and supplies they bring. However, Griggs also emphasized how high of a demand there is for blood donations right now.

“We are always in need of blood and we are always looking for more people to donate,” Griggs explained. “One person every 2 seconds needs blood, but only 3% of eligible donors are willing to donate.”

In an official statement by the American Red Cross, the organization pleaded for donors as they haven’t been able to keep up with the nation’s immense and consistent demand for blood.

“Fewer donors than needed gave this summer, drawing down the national blood supply and reducing distributions of some of the most needed blood types to hospitals,” said the American Red Cross.

They further explained that when supplies are low, the inventories may take many weeks to rebound. Other factors play into the recent donation drought, such as it being one of the busiest travel seasons recorded and school activities.

“The Red Cross is working with hospitals around–the–clock to meet the blood needs of patients – but can’t do it alone. The need for blood is constant… an often-invisible emergency that the rest of the world doesn’t see,” the organization said.

The drive took place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 1, and they received sufficient donations. The relationship between Moorpark College and the American Red Cross benefits both parties. As a result, the Red Cross holds drives on campus regularly.

To find a local blood drive to donate blood, click here. Interested students can read more about the American Red Cross at this link.