Shakopee Police Department rallies community to donate blood as trauma season and summer blood shortages loom
MINNESOTA — As the nation celebrates the 50th anniversary of National EMS Week (May 18–24), Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) is teaming up with the Shakopee Police Department to host a blood drive on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The drive 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 Kathy Geist, Vice President, Regional Operations at Memorial Blood Centers. “We hope this blood drive 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.
WHEN: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
WHERE: Shakopee Police Department, 475 Gorman St, Community Room, Shakopee, MN 55379
WHO: Blood donors, Shakopee Police Department representatives, and Memorial Blood Centers representatives
WHY: It only takes one hour to donate, and a single donation can save multiple lives. Roughly one in seven hospital admissions require a blood transfusion. Those in need include: cancer patients, accident, burn, or trauma victims, newborn babies and their mothers, transplant recipients, surgery patients, chronically transfused patients suffering from sickle cell disease or thalassemia, and many more.
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 mbc.org or call 1.888.448.3253.
Media Contact: Lindsey Jordan, [email protected], 302-319-8222
