Whether you’re an experienced donor or looking to give for the first time, donating blood is a simple yet effective way to make a positive impact on local lives.

Where to donate

American Red Cross, 1510 N. Meridian St.
Schedule an appointment to donate blood, platelets, or plasma at this permanent Red Cross location. It's open for appointments one day every week.

Versiti Blood Center of Indiana, locations vary
With seven locations in Indiana, you're never too far from a Versiti center. Bonus: The Indianapolis facility in particular is open seven days a week.

Find an American Red Cross blood drive that’s close to your home or workplace, then choose an available time.

What you need to do

Read up on the requirements for donating blood to see if you are eligible.
Complete a Blood Donor History Questionnaire ahead of your appointment or on-site.
When you arrive to donate blood, expect a short physical (temperature, pulse, blood pressure check, and a small finger prick to check your hemoglobin levels).
If you’re cleared to donate, sit back and relax — it’ll be over before you know it.

Things to remember

Eat a hearty meal beforehand and give yourself an hour to digest.
Drink an extra 16 oz of room-temperature water prior to your donation in order to prep your veins. Make sure to continue drinking extra water after donating.
Avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day.
Incorporate iron-rich foods into your meals after donating.
Eating and drinking properly beforehand will help prevent passing out. However, if you do pass out, you are in the care of well-trained nurses who will look after you.

Why it's important

People with type O- blood are universal blood donors, but only 7% of the population has O- blood. Learn more about your blood type.
There are about 10 pints of blood in your body. Roughly one pint is given during a donation — it can take between a couple of hours to a few weeks to replenish that amount.
A blood donation can save up to three lives, but less than 38% of the population is eligible to give blood or platelets.

If you can’t donate blood, don’t sweat it. Check out other ways to give back in Indy.