WEST ORANGE, NJ—January 15, 2026— Blood banks across the tristate area are facing a critical shortage. RWJBarnabas Health is stepping up to help by organizing blood drives in New Jersey. The start of the year usually sees lower blood supplies, but this year’s flu season has worsened the situation. More people are visiting emergency rooms, and potential donors are hesitant to attend blood drives.
Starting now, RWJBarnabas Health invites people of all blood types to donate. These donations are crucial for various medical needs, including surgeries, trauma care, childbirth, cancer treatments, and organ transplants.
January is Blood Donor Month. According to New Jersey Blood Services, blood donations have plummeted nearly 40%. Over 200 hospitals in the area now have less than a two-day supply of blood. This shortage highlights the urgent need for donors.
“Winter always brings challenges for blood donation, but this year is particularly tough,” says Sally Wells, a community liaison for Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital’s Blood Donor Services. Factors like severe weather and a spike in illnesses are driving down donations. Hospitals rely on these contributions to save lives, so any eligible donor is needed right now.
It only takes about an hour to donate blood, and one donation can save up to three lives. Here’s a list of upcoming blood drives:
- January 15, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.: Jersey City Medical Center, Conference Room 5
- January 21, 10:30 a.m.–4 p.m.: Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Hamilton, Roma Café
- January 28, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Newark Strong Lobby
- January 29, 11:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.: Bradley Gardens Vol. Fire Co., Catering Hall
- February 4, 12:00-6:00 p.m.: Rahway Fitness and Wellness
- February 12, 1–7 p.m.: Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
- February 14, 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.: Raritan Valley Road Runners, Reformed Church of Highland Park
- February 17, 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m.: Bradley Beach Community, Bradley Beach Fire Department
- February 26, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.: Rutgers University, The Commons @ The Yard
To donate, you need to be at least 16 years old and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds (120 pounds if you’re 16). Be sure to bring a photo ID, and remember that donors aged 16 and 17 require written consent from a parent or guardian.
For more information about donating or to find a blood drive near you, check out rwjuhdonorclub.org or call 732-235-8100 ext. 221.
As New Jersey’s largest health network, RWJBarnabas Health provides care for over five million people each year. By addressing health and social issues, they aim to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Their partnership with organizations like Rutgers University underscores their commitment to health and wellness in New Jersey.
Donating blood is a small act but can lead to significant changes. This month, let’s come together to fill the urgent need and save lives.
