[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 5 (Thursday, January 8, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H227]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1720
                       NATIONAL BLOOD DONOR MONTH

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
January as National Blood Donor Month.
  Since its inception in 1970, National Blood Donor Month recognizes 
the millions of Americans who help save lives by donating blood. 
Statistics show that every two seconds, someone in this country needs 
blood.
  On average, one in seven hospital patients need blood, and 
approximately 29,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in 
the United States.
  Over the last 50 years, public awareness for blood donation has 
increased. Now approximately 13.6 million volunteers donate blood 
annually.
  In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, more than 5,000 blood drives 
were held in 2025, according to the Red Cross. I am encouraged to see 
constituents ready to roll up their sleeves and help those in need. In 
fact, one of the most challenging times of the year to collect blood 
donations is in the winter months.
  Mr. Speaker, I hope all Americans will take the time to consider 
donating blood this month. It is important to know that one blood 
donation can save lives.

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