Donate blood

Veterans and families who want to help the nation's critical blood shortage can also receive a $10 Amazon gift card in the process by donating.

The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage that is negatively affecting blood product availability across the country. Donors of all blood types – especially type O and those giving platelets – are urged to make an appointment to give now and help ensure hospital shelves are stocked with blood products over the Fourth of July holiday and beyond.

Those who come to give blood or platelets April 1-15 through the American Red Cross will automatically be entered to win a VIP trip for four to the 2022 Indianapolis 500®.

Record-breaking cold and winter storms across much of the U.S. have had a significant impact on blood and platelet donations.

Veterans! If you were ineligible to donate blood because of your military service in Europe, you may be eligible now. The FDA lifted that ban and blood is urgently needed now because of the pandemic.

Army Veteran Anthony Smith had a stroke and needed a blood transfusion. He says the transfusion saved his life by preventing another stroke. Very grateful, today he is a champion for blood donation.

The winter months are the hardest season on the blood supply in America. Inclement weather, cancelled blood drives, flu and seasonal illnesses. VA encourages our employees and Veterans to donate now.

The winter months are the hardest season on the blood supply in America. Inclement weather, canceled blood drives, flu, and seasonal illnesses. VA encourages our employees and Veterans to donate now.