News Summary
The American Red Cross is urging residents in Orange County to step up their blood donations this summer as typical seasonal drops in contributions are expected. With exciting incentives such as free movie passes for donors, the organization aims to collect 1,200 units of blood daily. Key blood drives are scheduled throughout July, making it an excellent opportunity for the community to come together and support local hospitals. Every donation can save lives, particularly for those in urgent need of blood. Join the effort and make a significant contribution this season!
Blood Donation Urgency Hits Orange County This Summer
As the sun shines brightly over Orange County this summer, the American Red Cross is facing a pressing challenge that affects the health and well-being of local residents. There’s an urgent need for blood donations as the typical summertime slump in blood donations kicks in. This is a crucial call for action for everyone in the community!
Kick Off the Summer with Giving
To tackle this annual dip in donations, the organization is rolling out some exciting incentives for those willing to take a little time out of their day to donate. How does earning a free pass to the movies sound? That’s right! When you donate blood, you’ll receive a Fandango Movie Reward sent straight to your email as a thank-you for your generosity. This is a great reason to team up with friends or family for a movie night out after donating!
Why Blood Donations are So Important
When the summer fun starts, it can really take a toll on blood collection efforts. Activities like vacations, barbeques, and outdoor gatherings often lead to fewer folks heading to donate blood. Plus, factors like holidays and severe weather can impact the ability to collect vital blood supplies. The Red Cross aims to collect approximately 1,200 units of blood each day in order to meet the overwhelming needs of local hospitals.
Among the most critical donations, there is a particular emphasis on encouraging people with type O blood and individuals who can donate platelets to step up. Every unit of blood donated can save up to three lives, making your contribution incredibly impactful, especially for patients suffering from trauma, cancer, and even premature babies.
Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Blood Drives
If you’re looking to help out, several blood drives are lined up throughout July 2025 at various locations across Orange County. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the notable events:
- July 9, 2025: Dana Point Harbor from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- July 10, 2025: Laguna Hills from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- July 10, 2025: San Clemente from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM
- Additional events are also scheduled in Rancho Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch, and more!
It’s important to register ahead at the American Red Cross website and bring along proper identification for your donation.
Stay Updated with Your Donation Plans
Before you head to a blood drive, make sure to verify the times and dates as they are subject to change. For the latest information on specific events, feel free to reach out to the event organizers directly! You can also call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) for assistance.
Remember, the process for donating blood is quick, typically taking just about 10 minutes. But every moment spent can significantly impact someone else’s life. So, be sure to prioritize your donation during these critical summer months.
In Conclusion
Orange County, let’s come together to support our local hospitals and save lives this summer! Grab a friend or family member, hit up a blood drive, and enjoy that movie reward! Remember, your blood donation is not just a gesture; it’s a lifeline for those in need.
Get Out There and Donate!
Join in the effort and make a difference this summer. Your contribution can turn a regular day into a life-saving endeavor for someone in need. Don’t wait—make your appointment today!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- South OC Beaches: Dana Point Harbor Blood Drive
- ABC7: LA Area Wildfires Leads Blood Donation Shortage
- CBS8: San Diego Blood Bank Summer Donations
- Patch: Give Blood Get Gift Card – RSM April Blood Drives
- South OC Beaches: San Juan Capistrano Blood Drive
- Wikipedia: Blood Donation
- Google Search: Blood Demand and Donation
- Google Scholar: Blood Donation Impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Blood
- Google News: Blood Donation News

Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.