The San Diego Blood Bank is one of the oldest and most trusted community blood centers in Southern California. Founded in 1950, it was created to make sure that local hospitals always have the blood they need to save lives.
Today, the San Diego Blood Bank collects, tests, and distributes blood and blood products to hospitals throughout the region. Thousands of people donate blood every year, helping patients who need surgery, cancer treatment, or emergency care.
Our History
The San Diego Blood Bank began with support from the San Diego County Medical Society and the vision of Dr. Thomas O’Connell and Dr. Frederick G. Hollander.
Early community leaders like Jonas Salk, Allan Klauber, Neil Morgan, and Mayor Harley Knox helped shape the organization’s mission.
- 1950–1953: Around 27,000 pints donated each year
- 1960s: Donations grew to nearly 40,000 pints
- 1970s: Opened headquarters in Hillcrest and first donor center in Escondido
- 1980s: Donations reached 86,000 pints per year
- Today: Over 100,000 donations collected annually
For a full look at milestones, visit the San Diego Blood Bank timeline.
What the San Diego Blood Bank Does
The San Diego Blood Bank provides blood and blood products to hospitals and clinics across the region. It helps patients in need of:
- Surgery
- Cancer treatments
- Organ transplants
- Trauma care
- Chronic blood disorders
Each donation can help save up to three lives. The Blood Bank also supports research and innovation in blood and biotherapies.
Locations and Mobile Drives
The San Diego Blood Bank makes it easy to donate blood. You can give blood at one of its fixed donor centers or through mobile blood drives that visit workplaces, schools, and community events.
Fixed Donor Centers:
- El Cajon
- Escondido
- Sabre Springs
- San Diego (Hillcrest)
- Point Loma
- Chula Vista
- Vista
- Carmel Valley
Mobile Units travel throughout Southern California, including the Imperial Valley and Orange County.
Find a location near you or schedule your donation: www.sandiegobloodbank.org
Innovation and Safety
The San Diego Blood Bank has always been a leader in medical progress.
- In the 1960s, it supported the growth of open-heart surgery by supplying needed blood.
- It was among the first in California to test all donated blood for hepatitis.
- In 1981, it launched the Designated Donor Program, allowing patients to choose their own blood donors.
- It also started the Autologous Donor Program, where patients can donate their own blood for surgery.
Every donation today is voluntary, with strict testing and safety measures approved by state and federal health agencies.
Who Can Donate Blood
Anyone can help save lives by donating blood.
You can donate if you:
- Are at least 17 years old (16 with consent)
- Weigh at least 110 pounds
- Are in good health
Regular donors are the heart of the San Diego Blood Bank — some have been donating for decades!
One hour of your time can help save up to three lives.
Accreditations and Memberships
The San Diego Blood Bank is licensed and trusted by top health authorities, including:
- California Department of Health Services
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
It’s also a proud member of:
- Association for the Advancement of Blood & Biotherapies (AABB)
- California Blood Bank Society (CBBS)
- America’s Blood Centers (ABC)
- Blood Centers of America (BCA)
- Blood Centers of California (BCC)
It also serves as the local Cord Blood Registry for the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP).
How to Get Involved
You can support the San Diego Blood Bank in many ways:
- Donate blood regularly
- Host a blood drive at your workplace or community center
- Volunteer at donor centers or events
- Give financial donations to help fund new technology and outreach
Every act of kindness makes a difference for patients and families across Southern California.
Ready to make an impact?
Visit www.sandiegobloodbank.org to learn more or schedule your next donation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does the San Diego Blood Bank do?
It collects, tests, and provides blood to hospitals so patients can receive safe transfusions when they need them most.
How often can I donate blood?
You can donate whole blood every 56 days — about six times a year.
Is it safe to donate blood?
Yes. All equipment is sterile and used only once. Staff are trained to make the process quick and safe.
Does the San Diego Blood Bank only serve San Diego?
No. It also supports hospitals in Southern California, including the Imperial Valley and Orange County.
What is the mission statement of the San Diego Blood Bank?
The mission statement of the San Diego Blood Bank is connecting diverse communities to save and improve lives through blood and biotherapies.
How can I schedule a donation?
Go to www.sandiegobloodbank.org or call their main office to find a donation center near you.
Is the San Diego Blood Bank a nonprofit?
Yes, San Diego Blood Bank (SDBB) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Why It Matters
The San Diego Blood Bank saves lives every single day. From emergency surgeries to cancer care, donated blood gives patients hope and healing. When you give blood, you join a caring community that has helped San Diego since 1950 — and continues to make a difference today.
