The current surge of COVID-19 cases in the state is impacting volunteer blood donations and causing alarmingly low inventories of certain blood types at all RWJBarnabas Health hospitals.

During the summer months, the blood supply historically drops precipitously. The summer is always a challenge, but this year, the struggles are even greater because of the resurgence of COVID-19. There is a critical need for “Type O” blood, which is in very low supply.

Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus has partnered with Lev Rochel Bikur Cholim of Lakewood and the Lakewood Scoop to appeal to all healthy Lakewood residents to roll up their sleeves and help to save a life.
A blood drive is scheduled for Thursday August 18, from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, 600 River Avenue, in the Schulman Conference Center.

“The results of this blood drive will help to save patient’s lives by increasing our Blood Bank inventories throughout the region, a boost that is very much needed,” says Dr. Philip Passes, Chief Administrative Officer, Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus.

Appointments are available on-line at rwjuhdonorclub.org or by calling 732-235-8100 ext. 221. Medical eligibility questions should be referred to a RWJUH staff member at 732-235-8100 ext. 248. Donors will be prescreened to review exposure to COVID-19 and masks will be required.

All donors will be given a $5 Wawa gift card, a grocery tote bag and will be entered into a raffle drawing to win a $50 Wawa gas card.