Help us saves lives

The Melrose Women's Missionary Union is hosting an American Red Cross Blood Drive on Saturday, September 27 from 10 AM- 2 PM.

Please use this page to learn more about how donating blood saves lives, if you are eligible to donate, and to make an appointment at our drive.

Those donating blood from Sept. 16-30 will receive a $15 e-gift card to the merchant of their choice. Visit the Red Cross site HERE for more information.
Sign up here to donate!

Watch this video if you are a first time donor to learn more about the process of blood donation!

Am I eligible to donate whole blood?

  • "Whole blood" is the term used for blood that contains red cells, white cells, platelets, and is suspended in plasma. It is the blood that runs through your veins.
  • This is the most flexible type of donation and can be given in its original form or can be separated into specific components.
  • You must be 17 years or older. Those 16 years old can donate in the state of Virginia with a signed permission form from a parent or guardian.
  • You must weigh at least 110 lbs. and be in good health which means you can perform normal activities.
  • Those with chronic conditions such as diabetes are eligible to donate if the condition is being treated and is under control.
  • To see if you are ineligible due to medications, treatments, or vaccination, please go to the Red Cross website HERE.

Am I eligible for a Power Red donation?

  • This type of donation is only for those with blood type O, A negative, or B negative.
  • "Power Red" is a specific type of donation that uses a special machine to collect 2 units of red blood cells during a donation and returns the plasma and platelets back to the donor.
  • During the donation, blood is drawn through one arm into a machine that safely separates the blood, and returns the remaining blood components back to the donor through the other arm.
  • Male donors must be at least 17 years old, at least 5'11" tall, weigh at least 130 lbs., and have a hemoglobin level of at least 13.3 g/dL.
  • Female donors must be at least 19 years old, at least 5'3" tall, weigh at least 150 lbs., and have a hemoglobin level of at least 13.3 g/dL.
  • To view all eligibility requirements for a Power Red donation, please go to the Red Cross website HERE. 
Sign up to donate here!

Tips and Tricks for those who have signed up
to donate!

  • Make sure to bring a valid form of ID with you to your drive appointment. 
  • Make sure to limit your caffeine intake up to 2 days before your donation appointments and make sure to drink LOTS of water.
  • Eat iron rich foods to help with your iron levels. Click HERE for a list of iron rich foods compiled by the Red Cross. 
  • The day of your donation, try to keep your hands and arms moving and warm to help increase blood circulation.
  • Make sure to take advantage of the Red Cross' Rapid Pass the day of the drive to help save you some and drive workers some time!
  • Download the blood donor app and register so you can keep track of your donations. You will even be able to see where you donation is sent and the recipient of your blood.  

Watch this video to learn more about common blood donation myths!