When you donate Whole Blood, one pint is taken during donation. It is later separated into three components. Red Cells Platelets Plasma It takes six people to make up one unit of platelets. That is why we suggest that if you have type A blood you give a platelet donation instead. When you donate whole blood you can help save up to three lives! Red blood cells are often used to help surgery patients, trauma victims and premature babies. You can donate whole blood every 56 days.