Red Cross announces Type O-, O+ blood shortage. Drive in Baker this month
By Logan Bagett on Wednesday, March 11th, 2026 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER CITY — The American Red Cross reports a significant blood shortage within their supplies and are calling on folks to donate if they can. The next drive in Baker City is planned for March 23rd and 24th. Red Cross officials recently mentioned need for blood donations, especially those of O- and O+ blood types.
Both typical blood donations and Power Red donations will be taken at the Baker City collection event. The Red Cross explains, “A Power Red donation collects the red cells but returns most of the plasma and platelets to the donor. These donors must meet specific eligibility requirements and have type A Neg, B Neg, or O blood.”
The blood drive will be held for two consecutive days at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2625 Hughes Lane, in Baker City. On March 23rd donation times will be open between 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. For those who would like to donate in the morning, February 24th’s blood drive will be held between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
In addition, March is Red Cross Month. See the information below from the American Red Cross:
(From the American Red Cross)
“[Red Cross Month is] a time to honor and celebrate our donors. As an additional thanks for supporting our lifesaving mission, we want to help donors maintain their well-being! In March, successful donations get free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes (one result per calendar year).*** No fasting needed — you should prepare for your donation by drinking extra water and eating a healthy meal.”
To schedule an appointment, log on to redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.
