Host a Drive

Your company, school, church or organization can help save lives. By holding blood drives at your site, you can make blood donation convenient and provide essential support to patients right here in your community.

Most of us will need a blood transfusion at some point in our lives. That means that you, your family, and your peers would need the support of volunteer blood donors. By sponsoring a blood donation program at your site, you and your group can help save lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take?

The entire blood donation process takes about an hour and includes some paperwork and a mini-physical. The actual collection of blood takes just 5 to 8 minutes.

Does it hurt?

Comfort levels vary from person to person, but most donors say there’s nothing to worry about. You’ll feel a slight pinch and it’s all over before you know it.

How much blood do you take?

A medical professional will draw one pint.

How will I feel afterward?

After resting for five minutes and enjoying refreshments to replenish your fluids, you should feel just fine and ready to tackle your daily activities. Following donation, you should refrain from heavy lifting or extreme physical exertion for 24 hours.

Can I catch anything by donating blood?

Donating blood is completely safe. All equipment used for the donation is sterile and disposable. It is used only once and never used again. You cannot get AIDS or any other disease by giving blood.

What happens to the blood after I donate?

The blood is separated into three components: red blood cells, platelets and plasma. To ensure safety, 13 different tests are performed and then the lifesaving products are transported to civilian hospitals all over the state to meet the needs of Hawaii’s patients.

Why should I donate blood?

Everyday, hundreds of lives depend on volunteer blood donors. By giving the gift of life, you will help ensure that blood will be there for the people you love and anyone else who needs it.

Who would get my blood?

Typical recipients include cancer patients, mothers and babies during childbirth, accident and trauma victims, open heart surgery and bleeding ulcer patients, and those requiring other forms of medical treatment.

Who can donate?

The qualifications to be a blood donor are simple:
• Be in good health.
• Be at least 18 years old (17 with signed Blood Bank parent/legal guardian consent form).
• Weigh at least 110 pounds.
• Have a valid photo ID with date of birth.
• No tattoos or body piercings in the last 12 months.