As Tropical Storm Idalia—which is predicted to intensify into a hurricane— approaches the Suncoast, Suncoast Blood Centers is in need of blood donations.
In order to keep blood center shelves stocked ahead of an emergency, Suncoast Blood Centers is asking for individuals who feel safe and can donate blood to consider doing so.
Suncoast Blood Centers has donation centers at the following locations:
Bradenton: Bayshore Shopping Center
6026 14th St. W., Bradenton
Lakewood Ranch
3025 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Suite 111
Port Charlotte: Charlotte Square
2150 Tamiami Trail, Unit 17, Port Charlotte
Sarasota
1760 Mound St., Sarasota
Venice: Bird Bay Plaza
539 U.S. 41 Bypass, Venice
In general, healthy adults over the age of 16 with no history of blood-borne illness or pathogens can donate blood. Also, donors between 16 and 18 years of age can donate with a signed parental consent form. Donors must weigh at least 110 lbs. and be in good health — that means you feel well and can perform normal activities. If you have a chronic condition, such as diabetes, and you want to donate blood, it’s essential that you are being treated and the condition is under control. If you’re not feeling well on the day of your donation, please reschedule. Additional eligibility criteria apply, including certain medications, medical conditions, travel to certain countries, and personal history. For info, click here.
For more information on hours and eligibility, click here or call (866) 959-1176.