There is a constant need for blood. The Red Cross collects blood from volunteer donors only. Most healthy people age 17 or older who weigh at least 110 lbs can donate blood.
Blood is needed for emergencies, but also for people with cancer, leukemia, and blood disorders.
Some people, even children, need blood transfusions on a regular basis to live. Donating blood is simple and takes about an hour. A staff member will spend a few minutes asking detailed questions about your health. The American Red Cross Blood Services, Southern Region, provides blood products and services to more than 200 hospitals and health care facilities. The blood is used for people needing surgery, for treatment of cancer, leukemia or blood disorders, or for people with emergencies.