Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Although approximately 90 percent of us will likely require a blood transfusion during our lifetimes, only about five percent of eligible Americans donate each year.

Where Do I Donate?

American Red Cross-North Central Blood Services
176 South Robert St., St. Paul
1201 West River Parkway, Minneapolis
3490 Lexington Avenue, Shoreview
Call 651-291-4607 or 1-800-GIVE-LIFE to schedule an appointment at one of three locations or visit www.yourbloodcenter.org for more information.

Memorial Blood Center of Minnesota
2304 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, 612-871-3300
3021 Harbor Lane N., Plymouth, 763-550-9011
115 Roanoke Building, 109 South 7th Street, Minneapolis, 612-673-1088
Visit www.mbcm.org or call one of these three centers to schedule an appointment.

Who Can Donate?

You can donate blood as often as every 56 days. To donate, you must:

1. Be at least 17 years old
2. Weigh at least 110 pounds
3. Be in good health

About Blood

Blood is a complex living tissue composed of cells and extracellular fluid, each with many specialized functions. Propelled by the heart, blood circulates through our bodies within a system of blood vessels, carrying away waste products and bringing oxygen and nutrition to body cells.

• The average adult has 10-12 pints of blood—about 7-10 percent of a person's body weight
• The body has about 30 trillion red blood cells
• 2-3 drops of blood have one billion red cells
• For every 600 red cells, there are 50 platelets and one white cell

Blood Types

The blood type system is divided into four groups: A, B, AB and O. Your type is identified by the presence of A and B antigens on the surface of red cells.

Source: Minneapolis Area Chapter of American Red Cross, 612-871-7676

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