Give Before It's Needed Most
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Yet summer is one of the most challenging times of year to keep the nation's blood supply stable and right now, we're experiencing a national shortage.
Learn why shortages happen, how you can help and the organizations working every day to ensure blood is available when lives depend on it.
How can you help today?
There’s more than one way to show up for your community. Pick what fits your life right now, and we’ll point you toward it.
WHY SUMMER MATTERS
Why Blood Donations Decline in the Summer
The supply drops for reasons that have nothing to do with how much blood is needed and everything to do with everyday summer life.
Summer Vacations
Regular donors travel and routines that once included a donation appointment fall away for a few months.
Fewer Community Blood Drives
Schools and colleges, which host a large share of drives during the year, are out of session.
Medical Needs Don’t Take A Vacation
Surgeries, emergencies and ongoing treatments continue on the same schedule, all summer long.
EVERY DONATION HAS AN IMPACT
One Donation Can Change Several Lives
A single donation is separated into components, so the person who rolls up a sleeve on a Tuesday afternoon may end up helping people they’ll never meet.
Whole blood is commonly separated into red cells, platelets, and plasma, each supporting a different kind of care.
BLOOD MYTHS
Quick Answers Before You Give
A few honest questions people ask before their first donation.
Can I donate if I have tattoos?
In most cases, yes. Many donation centers only require a short waiting period after getting a tattoo, especially if it was done at a licensed, regulated studio. Check with your local center for the exact timeframe.
Will donating make me weak?
Most people feel completely normal afterward. Your body replaces the donated fluid within a day or two and centers typically ask you to rest briefly and have a snack before you leave.
How often can I donate?
It depends on what you donate. Whole blood typically allows a longer gap between visits than donating just platelets or plasma, which the body replenishes faster. Your local center can tell you the schedule that applies to you.
Who actually receives donated blood?
Trauma and surgery patients, people undergoing cancer treatment, premature infants and those with chronic conditions like sickle cell disease all rely on the donated blood supply.
BEYOND BLOOD
Blood Is Just One Way to Give
Small actions today help communities prepare for tomorrow.
