
“We’ve got to take care of each other. No one else is going to do it for us.
“I tell people all the time — if you want to help someone, this is one of the easiest ways... It doesn’t cost anything. Just a little time. And it can save a life.”
Ray Shoemaker, blood donor and drive coordinator, Tupelo, Mississippi

Our community’s future. One donation at a time.

“Blood donation isn't just about saving lives. It's about building the health of our community. It's about ensuring our neighbors, friends, and loved ones have the care they need to thrive.”
Dr. Kenneth Ataga, Center for Sickle Cell Disease director at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center at Memphis and Vitalant Trustee.

“Until you have a direct impact of someone you know who needs blood, you may not be aware of the ongoing need for blood... Donating blood is an act of service that will help someone. Plus, it’s easy to do.”
Arlinda Cathey, Blood Drive Coordinator

"This is a very direct way to show up for our community... It's an opportunity for you to be able to really help impact somebody."
Taylor and Devon Friend, Blood Donors
Why Does Blood Donation Matter?
Blood donation helps our moms, our kids, and our neighbors stay healthy and strong. Every donation creates hope and strength in our community. Let’s make a difference—sign up to give blood.
One Family's Story of Hope Through Blood Donation
Zavion lives with painful sickle cell disease complications and missed countless days of school, but thanks to blood transfusions he was able to attend his high school graduation and is now in college.
“We are forever grateful for all the people … who continue to donate blood to help sick children thrive," Zavion’s mom, Renee, said.
Zavion’s family also hosted a community blood drive, spurred by the support he received during a long hospital stay. They realized people wanted to help. "A lot of people delivered food and gift cards. Then we thought, ‘how about just having them give blood?’” Renee said. “That’ll probably be the best gift they can give.”
The Benefits of Donating Blood
Did you know that when you give blood, there are benefits for you, too? We conduct a mini-physical every time you donate. The screening provides you with valuable health information:
- Find out your blood type.
- Temperature, pulse and blood pressure.
- Hemoglobin (iron) level.
- Completed donations are checked for cholesterol levels. Occasionally we offer additional screenings such as COVID-19 antibodies.
- Each donation is screened for more than a dozen infectious diseases. If your donation tests positive, we will confidentially let you know.
Access your health information any time in your secure, private online donor account.
How Do You Know if You Can Donate?
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Are at least 18 years old (16 & 17 years old with parental permission); no upper age limit.
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Weigh at least 110 pounds.
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Are in good general health and feeling well the day of your donation.
Visit our eligibility page for more information.