Congressman George Latimer (NY-16) applauded the work of New York Blood Center (NYBC) and community blood centers across the United States in remarks on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives on July 14, 2026, while bringing attention to the blood emergency impacting New York.
“Blood can only come from generous donors, and patients in need are relying on volunteers to roll up our sleeves and give them the gift of life,” said Congressman Latimer. “But right now, New York Blood Center is in its second blood emergency of the summer. Significantly low levels of blood supply exist for the state.”
Congressman Latimer praised “the millions of Americans who already regularly donate blood,” while encouraging more Americans to join them.
“In the United States, someone needs blood every two seconds,” said Congressman Latimer. “And while more than 60% are eligible to donate blood, only about 3% of Americans do.” If just 1% more volunteers donated blood, pointed out Congressman Latimer, we could alleviate blood shortages.
Congressman Latimer’s remarks followed a speech he gave in January 2026 during National Blood Donor Month, when he also praised NYBC and brought attention to a winter blood shortage.
Congressman Latimer has represented New York’s 16th Congressional District, which includes NYBC’s Rye Campus, since January 2025. He previously served as Westchester County Executive and partnered with NYBC on blood drives to commemorate the anniversary of the September 11 attacks.
