New York City Awarded Blood Center $300,000 Grant
The funding will support a new mobile collection unit designed to boost falling donation rates across Queens.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The New York Blood Center received a $300,000 New York City Capital Grant to deploy a mobile blood collection unit in Queens. This initiative seeks to revitalize regional participation following a notable drop in total contributions.
Why it matters
The grant aims to address a significant decline in local blood donations that has persisted for a decade. By utilizing a mobile unit, the organization intends to increase access for residents across schools, workplaces, and community hubs.
The New York Blood Center secured a $300,000 capital grant to support a new mobile unit. This investment addresses a 26% drop in Queens blood donations since 2015, a period that saw a reduction of nearly 9,000 donations.
The players
New York Blood Center
This nonprofit organization is one of the largest community-based blood centers in the United States.
The details
The mobile unit will travel to various sites including schools, workplaces, and houses of worship to reach potential donors more effectively. This effort builds on the success of the Forest Hills donor center, which has processed over 2,600 donors, including 500 first-time contributors, since opening in December 2025.
Timeline
2015 served as the baseline year for regional blood donation tracking.
Donation levels in 2025 were down 26% compared to the 2015 baseline.
The Forest Hills donor center opened in December 2025.
The city announced the capital grant award on October 9, 2026.
Market Landscape
The expansion of mobile collection capabilities follows a documented 26% decline in Queens blood donations between 2015 and 2025. This strategy positions the nonprofit to reclaim lost market share by meeting donors directly in their local neighborhoods.
Queens residents can contribute to the local supply more easily once the new mobile unit begins scheduling visits to community locations. Potential donors can also schedule appointments at existing centers by calling 1-800-933-2566.
The takeaway
Maintaining a stable blood supply requires consistent community participation and convenient access points for donors. Eligible residents can donate blood every 56 days to help sustain the regional reserve.
Further reading
Learn more about local charitable initiatives on our New York City Philanthropy page.
More information
To find a location or check eligibility, visit the appointment and eligibility portal.
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