Need Is Urgent for Type O Blood
Jul 22, 2026 09:41AM ● By Gail Bullen, River Valley Times Reporter
Eli Lindsay-Sims greets Drippy, Vitalant’s blood drop mascot, during Rancho Murieta’s July 4 celebration. Vitalant is urging residents to donate at the Rancho Murieta Community Blood Drive on July 27. Photo courtesy of Bonnie Kirshman
RANCHO MURIETA, CA (MPG) - Rancho Murieta residents can help replenish a critically low blood supply by donating at the Rancho Murieta Community Blood Drive from noon to 6 p.m. Monday, July 27 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 14673 Cantova Way.
The drive, sponsored by the Rancho Murieta Women’s Club and Knights of Columbus, comes as Vitalant reports its supply of type O blood has fallen to its lowest level in two years and urges donors – especially those with type O blood – to schedule appointments as soon as possible.
“Type O blood is always in high demand because it’s the most versatile and frequently used blood type for transfusions,” Vitalant Area Vice President Michael Martinez said in a statement. “When there’s a shortage, doctors may have to decide who can receive it immediately and who can wait.”
Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion, according to Vitalant. Type O blood is especially important in emergencies because it can be used before a patient’s blood type is determined. O-positive blood can be transfused to anyone with a positive blood type, while people with O-positive blood can receive only type O blood.
Vitalant said its already-low blood supply declined further during the Independence Day holiday as travel and holiday activities reduced donor turnout, leaving thousands of appointments still needing to be filled throughout the Sacramento region by the end of July.
Appointments for the Rancho Murieta drive can be made at donors.vitalant.org using blood drive code SMFM053 or by calling 877-258-4825. Walk-ins will be accepted as space permits. Donors will receive a coupon for 10% off a purchase from Yogurt Pop and be entered into drawings for a $50 Yogurt Pop gift card, donated by Carole Thames with Town and Country Real Estate; a $50 Murieta Inn & Cupola Spa credit and a Vitalant drawing for a chance to win a vehicle valued at up to $30,000.
Donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health and bring a photo ID. There is no upper age limit.
