South Shore Center in Alameda will host a community blood drive with Stanford Blood Center (SBC) on Friday, Feb. 17 from 1 to 5:00 p.m. at 2310 South Shore Center.

SBC has a critical need for all blood types, especially Type O. Just an hour can help save the lives of multiple patients. Walk-in availability may be limited, so donors should make an appointment by visiting www.stanford.io/3HKVykR, via the SBC mobile app or by calling (888) 723-7831.

“Blood donors are essential to the health and safety of our community. You never know when you or someone you know could need blood,” said Phillip Martin, Stanford Blood Center Account Manager. “In critical situations, it’s the blood that has already been donated that saves lives at a moment’s notice. That’s why we are asking our community members to step up and come out to the South Shore Center blood drive. In just one hour, you could donate enough blood to help multiple patients in need.”

SBC wants to reassure the public that the safety of donors is a top priority, and measures are in place to ensure blood donation continues to be a safe process for everyone onsite.

Before donation, donors are advised to eat well, stay hydrated and arrive with their donor ID. First time donors or returning donors without a donor ID card should bring a valid state-issued photo identification. O negative donors are universal donors, (meaning anyone can receive O- blood no matter their type,) and O- is often used for trauma and pediatric patients. As a special thanks for keeping patients a priority, anyone who donates at this drive will receive 1,000 bonus points to spend in the Donor Loyalty Store on a $10 gift card from Peet’s Coffee, Lowe’s Jamba Juice or Chipotle.