Earlier this year, blood banks in San Diego County and throughout the nation were critically short of blood supply. The situation was so dire that hospitals had to postpone surgeries, and recipients had to be prioritized based on life threatening need.
While circumstances have improved, the need is still great, which is why the San Diego County Blood has launched the Community Guardians Program, to share blood donating basics and get people back in the habit of donating blood regularly.
Blood is an essential need
There is no substitute for human blood; blood cannot be manufactured, which makes it absolutely essential!
- Blood is needed from people of all backgrounds to ensure that the blood supply can provide the best possible blood matches for San Diego’s diverse population.
- Only blood from volunteer blood donors can be transfused into hospital patients, so more volunteers are needed!
- To save lives and serve the region's hospitals, the San Diego Blood Bank needs to collect hundreds of units of blood each day.
You can save up to three lives with each blood donation. Your generous gift is used for local patients in need: for emergencies, for severe anemia, for cancer treatments and more. Thank you for being a lifesaver!
Schedule an appointment to donate blood below and use the referral CODE: IHRT
Who can donate blood?
To donate blood, a donor must be at least 17 years old, weigh a minimum of 114 pounds, and be in general good health. Learn more by reading the Frequently Asked Questions and Basic Eligibility Requirements.
What is the process to donate blood?
It is easy! The actual blood donation usually takes about 10 minutes. The entire process from registration until you walk out the door takes about one (1) hour.
Registration: Check-in with photo ID, mention your donation code, read donor education materials, and fill out a health history questionnaire.
Screening: A staff member reviews your questionnaire and completes a mini-health screening by taking your temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and a small blood sample to ensure you are healthy and well to donate that day.
Donate Blood: It takes about 8-10 minutes to donate a pint of blood that can help save up to three lives.
Rest & Recover: After donation you will be asked to sit in the canteen for 15 minutes. Enjoy complimentary ice cream, snacks, and beverages before returning to your day.