FRANKFORT, Ky. (Feb. 12, 2026) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear and First Lady Britainy Beshear hosted the American Red Cross “Team Kentucky Saves Lives” blood drive to help address the national blood shortage. They encouraged all Kentuckians to sign up to donate at a blood drive near them by visiting Governor.ky.gov/GiveBlood.
“When times feel uncertain, it’s important to find ways to make a positive impact. Donating blood saves lives,” said Gov. Beshear. “I want to thank everyone who is rolling up their sleeve today to make a difference. You are showing our Team Kentucky spirit of helping your neighbors.”
“Giving blood is one of the most impactful ways we can show love to our community,” said the First Lady. “Together, we can end this shortage and make a difference for our fellow Kentuckians and Americans in need.”
The Governor and First Lady have hosted numerous blood drives through the Governor’s Office. Through those drives, 262 lifesaving units of blood have been collected. Today, the Red Cross presented Gov. Beshear with a pin recognizing that he has personally donated a gallon of blood.
The American Red Cross announced a blood shortage following severe winter weather. Across the United States, over 500 blood drives were canceled due to weather, causing more than 20,000 blood and platelet donations to go uncollected. In the Kentucky region, nearly 40 blood drives have been affected with over 1,100 blood product donations going uncollected. In addition to the disruption of blood drives, dangerous weather conditions have also made it tougher to transport vital blood products.
The American Red Cross urges people to take action now to help offset the severe impact of recent winter storms on efforts to rebuild the blood supply during an ongoing blood shortage. Donors of all blood types are asked to make a blood or platelet donation appointment as soon as possible. Visit Governor.ky.gov/GiveBlood to sign up.
“The American Red Cross is thankful to Gov. Beshear and First Lady Britainy Beshear for their continued and heartfelt support of the Red Cross Kentucky Region,” said Nadine McCrindle, CEO, American Red Cross Kentucky Region. “In moments of disaster and during critical efforts like our winter blood appeal, their support makes a meaningful difference for families and communities across the commonwealth. Their ongoing commitment to our mission helps ensure we can be there when people need us most, and we are truly grateful for their continued involvement.”
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