Type O negative blood is extremely important. Only 9 percent of people have it, but 100 percent of the population can receive it.

Michigan Blood says the 60 Michigan hospitals they serve are currently experiencing a shortage of Type O negative blood.

Type O negative blood is especially important in emergency situations when there isn’t time to check a patient’s blood type. At this time, hospitals are attempting to conserve Type O negative blood, but the need will increase as the holidays approach.

“Local hospitals need your help to ensure a safe blood supply,” said Jim Wilson, President of Michigan Blood.

Michigan Blood is offering a gift to any donors with Type O negative blood through Tuesday, Nov. 15th. $10 gift cards to either Meijer or Kohls will be given.

How to Donate:

Grand Rapids Donor Center (1036 Fuller Ave. NE)

• Sunday 7am to 2pm (by appointment only)
• Monday – Thursday 8am to 7pm
• Friday 6am to 1pm
• Saturday 7am to 2pm

Grandville United Methodist Church (3140 Wilson Ave.)

• Thursday Noon to 7pm

Any healthy person 17 or older (or 16 with parental consent) who weighs at least 112 pounds may be eligible to donate, although females age 18 and under must weigh 120 pounds or more. Blood donors should bring photo ID. A person can donate blood once every 56 days, or up to 6 times a year.