Save a life: Be a blood donor

June 10, 2022

Providence Health Team

[5 MIN READ]

More than 118 million blood donations are collected worldwide each year. June 14, World Blood Donor Day, honors the individuals willing to roll up their sleeves to save a life.
The U.S. continues to face a critical blood supply shortage, which began in the early days of the pandemic.
Donating blood only takes about 15 minutes and can save up to three lives.
Get inspired to donate blood by learning the facts.

Did you know that with blood donation, three lives could be saved? It’s no wonder then that every year on June 14 we take time to celebrate the individuals who donate blood with World Blood Donor Day. Blood banks are still facing critical shortages, so blood donors are needed now more than ever.

Donating blood is safe and most adults can help. Here are a few fascinating facts about blood donation that just may inspire you to move past any hesitation or squeamishness about rolling up your sleeve to donate blood.

Someone in the U.S. needs blood or blood products every two seconds
29,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the U.S.
A car accident victim may need as much as 100 units of blood
37% of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood but only 10% do annually
Red blood cells can usually only be stored for 42 days
Platelets can only be stored for five days
Frozen plasma can be stored for one year

(Sources: American Red Cross and Community Blood Center)

What to expect

Learning about what to expect when donating blood can help ease any fears you may have. For instance, did you know it only takes about 15 minutes to donate blood? That’s 15 minutes of your time that can help save someone’s (or several someone’s) life.

Check out these great resources to learn more about donating blood.

Donating blood: The facts

How blood donations help patients

Frequently asked questions about blood donation

Get motivated!

Repeat blood donors will tell you how easy and rewarding it is to give blood. Check out these articles to seal the deal on scheduling that first donation.

What to do before, during and after donating blood

Got 15 minutes? Save three lives.

Tips for first time donors

Donate blood on a regular basis

Know eligibility requirements

Ready to donate blood? Great! Now, just make sure you’re eligible. You may also want to check with the local blood center in your community. They can help explain requirements and share any updates, including if some guidelines have been waived.

Requirements by donation type

Special considerations for blood donation

5 surprising reasons you can’t donate blood

Find a blood drive near you

When you’re ready to take action, the next step is finding a location near you. There are several drives that are hosted year-round at your local community center or church. You may also be able to find a mobile or on-site blood donation site at your local Providence hospital or clinic.

Find a blood drive near you

Find a doctor

If you need to find a doctor, you can use our provider directory. Through Providence Express Care Virtual, you can also access a full range of health care services.

Download the Providence App

We’re with you, wherever you are. Make Providence’s app your personalized connection to your health. Schedule appointments, conduct virtual visits, message your doctor, view your health records, and more. Learn more and download the app.