San Antonio's Bonham Exchange Club to Host Inclusive Blood Drive for LGBTQ+ and Allies During Pride Month

In a push to bolster diminishing blood supplies, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Center (STBTC) is partnering with a renowned LGBTQ+ venue, the Bonham Exchange, to conduct a blood drive during Pride month, informed sources told KSAT.

The need for donations has hit a critical point, with the center reporting a 25% decline in blood supply, a resource vital for daily transfusions at local hospitals. The blood drive is set for this Tuesday, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and all participating donors are promised a special "Pride" themed donation T-shirt, according to a news release obtained by KSAT.

Adding to the significance of the event, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has revised its donor eligibility guidelines. The eligibility for gay men, particularly, is now based on individual risk assessments for HIV, rather than their sexual orientation. This advancements stems from scientific research and successful outcomes at blood centers in other countries, STBTC noted. More details on eligibility requirements can be found on the center's website.

This important stride in the inclusivity of blood donation has drawn praise from local government, “Blood donation in our nation has become more inclusive, as discriminatory barriers have been lifted to encourage a wider range of donors,” San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg stated. Echoing these sentiments, another KENS 5 report quoted him, saying that the drive marks a step forward in ensuring that everyone feels welcome to help save lives.

Aside from the free T-shirt, donors at Tuesday's drive will also receive a H-E-B Lucky Draw, a Creamy Creations voucher, and a chance to win either a two-year lease on a 2024 Ford Mustang Ecoboost or a $10,000 cash prize, KENS 5 highlighted. Those looking to contribute to the cause can schedule an appointment through the STBTC website or by calling their helpline.