Blood Bank of Hawai‘i to host blood drive in Hilo 3 days next week

Hilo residents and those from surrounding areas are encouraged to make donating blood their 2026 New Year’s resolution.

Blood Bank of Hawai‘i will be in Hilo for its first time in 2026 next week, giving the community an opportunity to donate blood and make a difference, especially now when the blood bank reports there is an urgent need for O-negative blood.

The blood bank will host a 3-day blood drive Jan. 13-15 at 1373 Kīlauea Ave. Residents are invited to make an appointment and contribute to Hawai‘i’s ongoing blood supply needs.

Blood drive dates and times are as follows:

• 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Jan. 13.
• 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 14.
• 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 15.

Hawai‘i’s unique island geography makes maintaining a stable blood supply more than critical. Donors directly impact the lives of those facing medical emergencies by participating in this blood drive.

Blood donations typically decrease at the beginning of the year, just after the holidays. Blood Bank of Hawai‘i has to import blood from the mainland when the supply is low.

Meanwhile, there are enough eligible donors in Hawai‘i to supply all of the state’s blood needs — but only a fraction of eligible donors actually donate.

Participation of local donors statewide is essential to ensure Hawai‘i maintains a steady blood supply.

Blood drives are hosted three times a year on Maui, Kaua‘i and in Kona and Hilo on the Big Island to ensure residents throughout the state have the opportunity to donate.

The next drive in Hilo will be in May.

Visit the Blood Bank of Hawai‘i website or call 808-848-4770 for additional information and to schedule a donation appointment.

You can also stay updated on the blood bank’s events and needs by following @bloodbankhawaii on social media.