Your donation won't travel far, but it will go a long way.
Schedule an Appointment
Every drop matters.
When you give with We Are Blood, your donation is prioritized based on local need. This means it has the greatest potential to stay right here in our community and help save the life of a fellow Central Texan.
By donating blood locally, you are doing your part to make sure all Central Texans continue to have access to life-saving blood when they need it. On an average day, We Are Blood needs to receive at least 200 blood donations in order to maintain an adequate blood supply. A tragic event, even a single-car accident, can have a huge impact on that supply. It is the blood we have on our shelves during those tragic times that helps save people’s lives.
We want to make sure you have the best blood donation experience possible. Making an appointment online or over the phone is the best way to ensure we have a bed reserved for you, get you in and out quickly, and back to enjoying your day.
Make An Appointment Today
It’s easy. Click here to make an appointment online or schedule an appointment over the phone:
Blood: 512-206-1266
Platelets: 512-206-1231
What should I do before my appointment?
Make sure to drink plenty of fluids and eat a well-balanced meal.
What should I bring with me?
A full belly and a photo ID.
What happens when I arrive?
You'll sign in at the front desk and will be asked to read some information about the blood donation process. Then, we will have you complete a short survey in a private room so we can learn more about your medical and travel history.
Am I eligible to donate blood?
We can help you find out. Click through to our
eligibility page for more information. Still have questions? You can always email us at
[email protected] or call us at 512-206-1108. We never want someone to "self defer", or assume they aren't eligible to donate. Reach out and we'll let you know for sure!
How long does it take to donate blood?
It depends on what
type of donation you're giving.
For whole blood donation, the entire process (from check-in to refreshments) takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Platelet donations take between 70 minutes and 2 hours. No matter what type of donation you're doing, our staff make it fun and help make the time pass quickly.
What happens during the donation process?
First, you'll receive a mini-physical to ensure you're healthy enough to donate blood. We check your temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and hematocrit (red blood cell percentage) levels. Then, one of our phlebotomists will take you into the donation room where they will prepare you for the blood draw. We use sterile, disposable, one-use-only supplies for your donation, so there is not risk of getting a disease from giving blood.
What happens after I donate?
One of our phlebotomists will escort you to our canteen where you'll have your pick from a variety of snacks and non-caffeinated beverages. It's important to drink plenty of decaffeinated, non-alcoholic fluids for the rest of the day to ensure you stay hydrated. You also need to eat a full meal at your next mealtime! Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise: weightlifters should wait 2-3 days before resuming a regular workout.
What happens if I feel faint during or after my donation?
During your donation, let your phlebotomist know how you're feeling. If you feel faint after your donation, lie down or sit with your head between your knees. Avoid any potentially hazardous activities. Drink plenty of fluids and have a hearty snack.
What happens if I develop a bruise?
Apply a cold pack or ice to the area 2-3 times throughout the first day. If your arm is sore the day after your donation, apply heat for 10 minutes, 2-3 times during the day. If you develop a bruise larger than 2-3 inches in diameter, call us at 512-206-1266.
What happens if I experience swelling, pain, numbness, or redness where the needle was inserted?
Call us at 512-206-1266.
What happens if I become ill after a donation?
If you experience flu-like symptoms, including fever, or are diagnosed with a serious illness (such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, hepatitis, or cancer), after giving blood, please call us 512-206-1136.
