Donate Blood
Three Donation Types...
Most people choose to donate whole blood. The whole blood donation process takes less than one hour in total, it’s quick, easy and painless.
​
ConnectLife staff will draw one pint of blood containing red blood cells, white
blood cells, and platelets. After your donation, whole blood is processed into three components for use by patients.
Who Needs Whole Blood Donations?
Every day, people across Western New York need whole blood donations for multiple reasons, those in the hospitals with traumatic injuries, those fighting cancer, blood disorders, surgery patients, mother's who have given birth, and more.
​
How Often Can You Donate Whole Blood?
Every 56 days or 6 times a year
Double red cell donation is the collection of only your red blood cells, this is done using a process called automation or apheresis. Red blood cells are the most needed blood component for transfusion.
Who Needs Double Red Cell Donations?
When you choose double red cell donation, you can safely donate enough for two red cell transfusions. A single donation can help two patients receive lifesaving treatment including pediatric patients, surgery patients, sickle cell patients, and people with anemia. Red blood cells have a 42-day shelf life. That is why we need constant double red cell donations to supply the need at our local hospitals.
​
How often can I donate double red cells?
Every 112 days or 3 times a year
Platelet donations are done using a process called automation or apheresis. Platelets are the blood cells that help control bleeding, and they are essential in saving lives. Platelets have a shelf life of only five days. Therefore platelet donations are needed all of the time.
Who Needs Platelet Donations?
Did you know that cancer patients need platelets to help them heal due to the harsh effects of chemotherapy? In normal times, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday are the best times to donate platelets to meet hospital needs. In times of critical need, like right now during COVID-19, the best day to donate platelets is today.
​
How often can you donate platelets?
Every 14 days or up to 24 times a year
If you have donated whole blood, you must wait at least 56 days before you can donate platelets.
Donate blood at a mobile drive or at a neighborhood blood donation center, your experience will involve the same five steps.
Step 1: Registration
When you walk in, we ask donors for general information, such as name and address. In order to maintain accurate records, all donors are asked to present proper photo identification. This may be a driver’s license, passport, or even a company ID card.
Step 4: The Donation
In the donation area, a trained phlebotomist will sterilize the area of the arm before drawing blood. Since each donation kit is a one-time use sealed kit, there is ZERO chance of coming into contact with another donor’s blood. The donation time will vary depending on the type of donation you are making.
Types of donations:
• Whole Blood
• Platelet
• Double Red Cell
Step 2: Mini Physical
During the mini-physical, we check temperature, pulse, hemoglobin, and blood pressure. We draw and test a drop of blood to ensure the donor has enough iron-carrying red blood cells to safely donate blood.
Step 5: Refreshments and Relaxation
After the donation, you'll visit the refreshment area, where you rest while enjoying light refreshments. You can also make your next donation appointment before you leave.
Step 3: Medical Interview
Donors meet privately with a staff member to review their medical and travel history. We will also ask about tattoos and piercings. This information is kept strictly confidential.
Resources For Blood Donors
Book an Appointment
ConnectLifeGiveBlood.org is now live.
Welcome to the new and improved donor portal. Walk-ins welcome, appointments recommended.
If you need assistance, please call at 716-529-4270 or send an email partnersupport@connectlife.org.
​
How to Prepare For Your Donation
As a blood donor, you’re an essential part of saving lives in our community. The more you do to take care of yourself and prepare for donation, the more local patients you’ll be able to help. A hydrated body makes for a successful donation.
When you think you have had enough water, DRINK MORE!