The Coastal Bend Blood Center, established in 1969, continues to play a central role in blood donation efforts across South Texas, including the communities of Port Aransas, Rockport-Fulton, and Corpus Christi. The center coordinates the work of more than 35,000 volunteers annually, a number that is necessary to meet the daily demand for blood donations in the region.
Each day, over 150 donors are needed to ensure an adequate blood supply for South Texas hospitals and patients. The Blood Center deploys mobile units to various locations such as high schools, churches, and hospitals to make donation opportunities accessible. The main facility is located at 209 North Padre Island Drive in Corpus Christi and is open during regular business hours. The center’s operations cover ten counties and serve more than half a million residents, with bloodmobiles operating every day of the week to meet the needs of this large area.
Currently, there is an urgent need for type B-negative and O-negative blood. O-negative blood is especially important because it can be given to people of all blood types and is used in emergencies when a patient’s blood type is unknown, as well as for newborns requiring transfusions.
To be eligible to donate blood, individuals must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, have a pulse between 50 and 100, not have donated whole blood in the last eight weeks, and be in general good health. Potential donors should not have a cold or sore throat, should not be pregnant, and should not be taking antibiotics for an active infection. Those with questions about eligibility can call 800.299.4943.
State Representative Todd Hunter emphasized the importance of supporting organizations like the Coastal Bend Blood Center. “I want to continue to bring awareness to the many great organizations in our Coastal Bend such as the Coastal Bend Blood Center. About 1 in 7 people need blood when entering a hospital, so we can truly benefit from these types of worthwhile organizations by doing our part to raise awareness and try and participate in blood donations.”
More information about the Coastal Bend Blood Center and ways to help through donation can be found by visiting the Coastal Bend Blood Center website.
Rep. Hunter represents Aransas County and part of Nueces County. He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or by phone at 512-463-0672.
For questions about state agencies or constituent services, Hunter’s offices in Austin and Corpus Christi are available for assistance.
