BRADENTON, FL (February 9, 2026) — On Valentine’s Day, a holiday centered on the heart, SunCoast Blood Centers marks 77 years of neighbors saving neighbors through one of the most meaningful gifts of all: blood donation.

For 77 years, SunCoast Blood Centers has served as the sole provider of all blood products for 15 area hospitals and centers, ensuring patients across the region have lifesaving blood available when they need it most.

Founded on Valentine’s Day in 1949, SunCoast was built on a life-saving truth: the greatest gifts come from the heart, and without blood, the heart cannot keep beating. For more than seven decades, local donors have been the heartbeat of this community, supporting trauma care, surgeries, cancer treatments, and medical emergencies close to home.

“Our community is truly blessed to be self-sufficient. What we have is rare in Florida. Only three regions in the state have a hometown blood bank dedicated solely to caring for their neighbors,” said Teresa Taft, vice president of operations. “Our donors give from the heart, and because of their generosity, hearts keep beating every single day.”

As a local nonprofit blood bank, every donation stays right here, supporting patients in hospitals and treatment centers across Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties.

Starting February 14, SunCoast Blood Centers is giving blood donors even more reasons to give. Every blood donor will receive an instant $30 e-gift card and can earn up to $240 in rewards in 2026. Donors are also invited to celebrate with cake and pink hearts at all six SunCoast locations across the region. Schedule an appointment at suncoastblood.org or call (866) 972-5663.

About SunCoast Blood Centers: Founded on February 14, 1949, SunCoast Blood Centers is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing a reliable supply of blood products and services to hospitals and patients throughout Southwest Florida. With donor centers in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Venice, and Bradenton, SunCoast also operates mobile blood drives that serve Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties.

Media Contact: Tanja Malkovich, [email protected], 941-954-1600 ex. 145