By Airik Myers, Northwest Region

Sickle cell disease is the most common genetic blood disorder in the country. More than 100,000 people in the U.S. live with the condition, and many rely on frequent blood transfusions to manage severe pain, prevent organ damage, and treat life-threatening complications. The need is especially urgent in Black communities, where 1 in 365 babies is born with sickle cell disease.

For these patients, a close blood match can make all the difference. One in three African American donors is a match for someone living with sickle cell disease, making community participation especially vital.

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The Red Cross launched its Sickle Cell Initiative in 2021 to strengthen the blood supply for patients who depend on closely matched transfusions. Since then, more than 170,000 first-time African American donors have stepped forward, helping reverse declining donation trends and expand access to lifesaving blood products.

Here in Washington, the Sickle Cell Champion Team is building on that momentum by hosting drives on June 19, 2026, bringing donation opportunities directly into communities where they can have the greatest impact.

“Our mission is to grow the number of African American blood donors and improve health outcomes for patients with sickle cell disease,” said Kyle Brice, account manager for the Pacific Northwest Region. “These drives give our communities a chance to come together in celebration, remembrance, and action.”

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Patients with sickle cell disease may need up to 100 units of blood each year. Over time, repeated transfusions can make it harder to find compatible matches, especially when donors with similar blood characteristics are in short supply.

Blood from donors who are black is especially important. These donors are nearly three times more likely to provide the most compatible blood for patients with sickle cell disease, helping reduce complications and improve long-term outcomes.

Donating during Juneteenth and World Sickle Cell Day is a meaningful way to support families who rely on this care.

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The partnerships, trust-building, and outreach strategies developed through the Sickle Cell Initiative are creating benefits that extend beyond this single effort. These initiatives help strengthen relationships with community organizations, faith groups, student organizations, and local leaders — connections that can support broader donor diversity goals across the region.

By engaging new donors, raising awareness, and creating welcoming spaces for first-time participants, the initiative is helping lay the groundwork for long-term growth in communities that have historically been underrepresented in the blood supply.

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This year’s coordinated effort marks an important step toward expanding access to donation opportunities statewide. While some areas are still working to identify host organizations, the Red Cross remains committed to growing these partnerships in the years ahead.

The long-term vision is clear: every mobile unit in Washington supporting this mission, backed by community sponsors ready to champion the cause.

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You can honor Juneteenth and World Sickle Cell Day by scheduling a blood donation appointment at a participating drive near you. Your donation can help provide comfort, stability, and lifesaving care to patients who depend on regular transfusions.

To find a drive or schedule an appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Together, we can help ensure every patient with sickle cell disease has access to the blood they need — not just on June 19, but throughout the year.