Donating FAQs

• How often are units of blood needed?
• How often can a person give blood?
• How long does it take to give blood?
• When are the most important times of the year to give blood?

How often are units of blood needed?
Every 2 seconds someone in the US needs blood. The blood used in an emergency is already on the shelves before the event occurs.
Back to top

How often can a person give blood?
A healthy donor may donate whole blood / red blood cells every 56 days.
Back to top

How long does it take to give blood?
Donating blood takes about 1 hour.
Back to top

When are the most important times of the year to give blood?
Shortages of all blood types usually occur during the summer months and winter holidays.
Back to top