New York Blood Center awarded $300K for mobile blood collection unit in Queens – QNS

New York Blood Center (NYBC) will be purchasing a new mobile blood collection unit that will serve the Queens community thanks to a $300,000 New York City Capital Grant.

The investment intends to address low blood donations in Queens, which NYCB said remain significantly below levels recorded a decade ago. In 2025, the center said blood donations across the borough were down more than 26% compared to 2015, representing nearly 9,000 fewer donations.

NYBC said the new mobile unit will expand the center’s ability to bring blood drives directly to Queens neighborhoods, making it easier for residents to donate at local schools, workplaces, houses of worship and community organizations. 

The added capacity will also help NYBC reach new donors and engage younger generations across the borough. 

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. was a key advocate for securing the capital funding for the new unit, NYBC said.

Jeannie Mascolino, vice president of operations at NYBC, said the center is grateful to the City of New York and especially Richards for his advocacy and support in helping make the investment possible.

“Every day, patients across New York City depend on blood donors, and one of the most important things we can do is make donating as convenient and accessible as possible,” Mascolino said. “This new mobile unit will allow us to bring more donation opportunities directly into Queens neighborhoods and connect with donors where they live, work, and gather.” 

“For years, I have been proud to partner with New York Blood Center in hosting donation drives at Queens Borough Hall and spreading the word about the lifesaving importance of giving blood,” Richards added. “With this funding, we are not only investing in NYBC’s ability to expand its reach and collect vital donations, but also in the overall health and wellness of all 2.4 million people who call Queens home.”

The investment builds on NYBC’s growing presence in Queens. In December 2025, NYBC opened its Queens Donor Center in Forest Hills, where more than 2,600 people have donated, including more than 500 first-time donors. The mobile unit will build on that momentum by extending donation opportunities to communities beyond NYBC’s fixed donor center.

Blood donors can give every 56 days, and recent updates to FDA guidance mean more people may now be eligible to donate. To make an appointment or view current eligibility guidelines, call 1-800-933-2566 or visit NYBC.org.