While all blood types are needed, our regional supply is currently in need of O-POSITIVE, O-NEGATIVE and A-POSITIVE donations at this time. Please donate today to ensure that blood is there for the next person in need.

The Blood Donation Process

What to expect when you donate blood:

Step One: Registration

When arrive for your donation, you will be asked to provide either your MKBC Donor ID card, or valid photo identification. You will also be asked for your name and date of birth.

Step Two: Health Screening

A trained staff member will check your temperature, blood pressure and pulse, as ]well as a drop of your blood (to check your iron level), to ensure that you are eligible to donate. A series of questions about your health and lifestyle will also be asked. All information during this process is done in private, and kept strictly confidential.

Most persons who are 17 years of age or older, and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds are eligible to donate blood, but depending on the screening process, you may be deferred from donating, either temporarily or permanently. At this time, our staff member will also be able to answer any questions you might have.

Step Three: The Blood Donation

Before the donation, a trained staff member will clean the area of the arm that will be used for your blood donation. All supplies used in this process, including the needle, are sterile and disposable; therefore, there is no chance of contracting any disease from the blood donation process.

The actual blood donation will only take 5-10 minutes, after which time our staff member will also review some post-donation instructions with you and answer any additional questions you may have.

Step Four: The Canteen

After your donation, you will be asked to spend about 10 minutes in our refreshment area, where our volunteers will provide you with some refreshments to replenish the sugar and fluids in your body.