VICTORVILLE – Mercy Air, the nation’s leading air medical service, is hosting a blood drive, Monday, August 11, in Victorville to help ease shortages and encourage donations. 

Blood donors will receive a $15 e-gift card from the Red Cross, redeemable at the merchant of their choice.

Mercy Air says blood shortages occur when donations lag behind demand. Seasonal factors like travel and flu season reduce donations, but patient needs for surgeries, trauma care, and chronic conditions remain constant.

The company carries whole blood on board, enabling flight nurses to deliver lifesaving, hospital-level care at crash scenes and in remote areas.

What should blood donors know before giving

Mercy Air says donating blood is a quick, powerful way to help patients in need – one donation can save up to three lives.

Blood donors should make sure they meet basic requirements (age, weight, health) and wait the appropriate time since their last donation. (See the Red Cross website for more information.)

In addition, donors should:

• Hydrate & Eat: Drink plenty of water beforehand and eat a healthy, iron-rich meal within a few hours before the appointment.
• Bring ID: Most donation centers require a government-issued photo ID.
• Clothing: Wear sleeves that can easily be rolled up.

The donation itself typically takes 8–10 minutes, but expect to spend about an hour total for registration, screening, donation, and recovery.

After the donation, donors can rest for a few minutes, enjoy the provided snacks, and avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day.

Blood drive event info

Mercy Air will host a community blood drive with the American Red Cross on Monday, August 11, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Hillcrest Professional Medical Building located at 15247 Eleventh St, Ste. 100, in Victorville.

Register to donate here and use zip code 92395 to find available times under Mercy Air.

For more information, contact Mercy Air Victorville flight nurse April Franco at 760-680-9525 or via email at [email protected].