Donate Blood
Donating blood is a simple way to help save a life. If you're a first time donor, let the organization know when you make your appointment and ask:
- Is there is something you need to do ahead of time to prepare?
- What are some of the potential adverse reactions to the procedure?
The government monitors blood and blood products to make sure blood is handled properly and that you're safe as a donor or as a transfusion recipient. Learn more about blood monitoring for safety.
Where You Can Donate
The American Red Cross and the United Blood Services are nationwide organizations that manage blood donations. They are not part of the federal government.
The Armed Services Blood Program (ASBP) is the official blood program for the U.S. military. It is part of the federal government. Most blood products are for ill or injured service members, veterans and military families worldwide.
Register to Donate
- Call the American Red Cross blood donation hotline at 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit their website for local blood drives and Red Cross regions.
- Visit the United Blood Services website for local blood drives and donor centers.
- Civilians can donate blood at an ASBP blood donor center on a military installation only. Restrictions apply on who can donate. See the ASBP website for a list of military donor centers.