As summer approaches, the Central California Blood Center is facing a significant challenge in securing blood donations. Abby Minong, the center's Director of PR and Marketing, highlighted that with schools out, high school blood drives are halted, yet the demand for blood in local hospitals remains high. Each donation can potentially save up to three lives, impacting friends, family, and neighbors in the community. The center's hospital partners require blood products daily for patients in critical situations, such as trauma cases, major surgeries, and cancer treatments. Community members, including long-time donor Mark Rodriguez, who began donating after his son was diagnosed with cancer, emphasize the importance of donations. Rodriguez stated, "It's just a little pain to make someone else better," encouraging others to contribute. The center urges individuals to consider donating every eight weeks to help meet the ongoing need for blood in Central California.