Every two seconds, someone in this country needs a blood transfusion. Ninety-five percent of Americans will need blood in their lifetimes, yet less than five percent of us donate? One of the reasons is that so many people are deferred from giving, making it even more important to create ways to encourage those that can, to donate often!
Every blood donation has the power to help save as many as three lives, but whole blood only has a shelf live of 42 days. Another reason why it’s so important for people who qualify to be regular donors.
The Arlington County Chapter is part of the Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Blood Services Region of the American Red Cross. Approximately 20 blood drives are held in the county every month, at different locations. This is possible because of the generosity of Arlington businesses, civic groups and other local organizations that host blood drives.
Blood donors can give
every 56 days.
In order to be eligible to
donate blood donors must:
Be at least 17 years of age
Be generally in good health
Weigh no less than 110 pounds
Have not received a tattoo within the past year
Conform with current travel restrictions
Present a donor card or other form of photo identification
