The Blood Bank of Hawaii held a blessing and a grand opening event Tuesday at its new Young Street Donor Center.

The Blood Bank said this new location signals a milestone in disaster planning and preparedness for the state of Hawaii providing an alternate blood inventory and distribution site in case of a catastrophe or should Dillingham Donor Center become inoperable.

It also offers a convenient donor location for donors traveling to and from East Oahu, and for those living and working the Makiki, Moiliili and university areas.

It is located at 1907 Young Street, near Artesian Street.

"We are excited to have this facility that will allow us to further our emergency planning and serve the growing needs of Hawaii's hospitals and patients," said BBH President and Medical Director Dr. Robyn Yim. "We hope this new, convenient location will encourage current and new donors to donate blood."

The 8,901 square-foot building will house a collection center and blood inventory room.  It will also provide much-needed office space, and enable Dillingham Donor Center to expand its laboratory services to Hawaii's 17 civilian hospitals.

Donors wanting to schedule an appointment at Young Street or Dillingham Donor Centers may call 848-4770.