Local EMS teams rally community to donate blood as trauma season and summer blood shortages loom
RHODE ISLAND – As the nation celebrates the 50th anniversary of National EMS Week (May 18–24),Rhode Island York Blood Center (RIBC) is teaming up with first responders and medical professionals to host a series of blood drives. The drives will honor the lifesaving work of EMS professionals while helping to shore up the blood supply during one of the most critical times of the year: trauma season.
National EMS Week was established in 1974 by President Gerald Ford to recognize the critical role of emergency medical professionals who are often first on the scene of accidents and first to deliver lifesaving care. This year’s national theme, “WE CARE. FOR EVERYONE,” highlights EMS workers’ commitment to delivering compassionate and equitable care across all communities.
But EMS providers can’t do it alone. In cases of trauma, car accidents, or mass casualty events, blood transfusions are often the difference between life and death, and must be available on the shelves before tragedy strikes.
“National EMS Week is a powerful reminder that a stable and robust blood supply is vital for first responders and emergency medical professionals when responding to traumas, accidents, and natural disasters,” said Nicole Pineault, Executive Director, Blood Operations, at Rhode Island Blood Center.“We hope these blood drives will encourage local residents to make an appointment to donate blood today and take the time to thank their local EMS professionals during this special week!”
Warmer months bring an increase in accidents and trauma-related injuries. Known as “trauma season,” late spring and summer see a rise in emergency room visits and transfusion needs. At the same time, blood donations typically decline due to travel, school breaks, and holiday schedules, creating a perfect storm for shortages.
This year’s National EMS Week blood drives and their locations are listed below:
West Greenwich Community
Friday, April 16, 2025 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
274 Victory Hwy, West Greenwich, RI 02817
Western Coventry Fire Dept.
Sunday, May 18, 2025 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
1110 Victory Hwy, Greene, RI 02827
Charlotte Hungerford Hospital
Monday, May 19, 2025 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
540 Litchfield Street, Torrington, CT 06790
RIBC encourages new and returning donors to schedule an appointment and prioritize blood donation this holiday season. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors can give twice per month. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently lifted several blood donor eligibility restrictions.
To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit ribc.org or call 401.453.8383.
Media Contact: Sophie Vardi, [email protected], (908) 267-0006