Versiti Blood Reports Low Supplies
- Jake Watson
- 22 hours ago
- 1 min read
Versiti Blood Center is reporting seasonally low blood supplies following a difficult month of collections, driven largely by weather‑related school cancellations and seasonal illness.
According to Versiti, approximately 30 percent of its blood supply normally comes from high school blood drives, many of which were canceled in recent weeks. While collections dropped, the need for blood in hospitals did not.
“Blood donations are down due to weather and illness, but the need has never changed,” said Jamie Gumowski, with Versiti Blood Center.
To help address the shortage, two community blood drives are scheduled locally in February, offering residents an opportunity to donate close to home. Upcoming Community Blood Drives
Resurrection Lutheran Church - Sand Lake
Monday, February 9, 2026
1:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Resurrection Lutheran Church Narthex180 Northland Dr., Sand Lake
Whole blood and double red donations will be accepted.
Appointments can be scheduled through Versiti’s donor portal.
Cedar Springs Community Blood Drive
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Cedar Springs Library
Whole blood, double red, and platelet donations will be accepted.
Appointments are encouraged but not required.
Blood donations are used daily by area hospitals and have a limited shelf life, which why consistent community participation is essential, especially during winter months when donations typically decline.
Versiti is a nonprofit organization serving hospitals throughout Michigan and the Midwest.
Residents interested in donating can find additional details and sign up for an appointment through Versiti’s donor scheduling system.
