Donate Blood Now

Donating blood is one of the greatest gifts you can give. There is more opportunity now than ever to donate blood. Visit any one of our supporting organizations (see links below) to learn about their Donor Centers or Blood Drives.

Blood Bank professionals are challenged on a daily basis to maintain an adequate supply of volunteer blood products for hospital patients.   In NJ it is estimated that although 60% of the general population is eligible to donate, only 3.6 % do.   The  constant demand for blood products is substantial. Nationally over 29,000 units of red blood cells are needed daily with total component transfusions last year estimated to be approximately 16 million.

Individuals can donate different types of blood products that are essential for treating a wide range of medical needs,

• Whole blood donation: Takes about an hour and can be given every 56 days.

• Platelet donation: Crucial for cancer patients and burn victims and can be given every seven days.

• Plasma donation: Often used in trauma care and can be given every 28 days.

• Double red cell donation:  Allows donors to give two units of red blood cells in one visit and can be given every 112 days.

Blood products cannot be manufactured, and they have a limited shelf life. For example, red blood cells must be used within 42 days, and platelets within just seven days, making regular donations essential to maintain adequate supplies.

Visit the sites listed below to learn more about how you can help to save a life!

• American Red Cross Services

• Hunterdon Healthcare

• Miller-Keystone Blood Center

• New York Blood Center

• RWJBarnabas Health

• Vitalant Blood Services

Individuals who are at least 17 years old (16 years old with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood in New Jersey.