The Town of Hingham will host a blood drive later this month through the American Red Cross, open to all eligible residents.
WHEN:
Tuesday, Jan. 24, from noon to 5 p.m.
WHERE:
Hingham Senior Center, 224 Central St.
WHO:
Anyone at least 17 years old can donate blood, so long as they are in good health and weigh at least 110 pounds. In Massachusetts, a 16-year-old may donate blood as well but is required to have a consent form signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to donating. There is no upper age limit for donating, so long as the individual is feeling healthy and well and meets the other criteria.
WHAT:
Blood donations help save lives, and are desperately needed. The country is facing its worst blood supply shortage in over a decade, and eligible residents can do their part to address this serious need. Hospital patients rely on donors to help ensure blood is available for the lifesaving treatments they need. It’s one of the most powerful ways to give to those in need.
Those who donate at the Town Of Hingham’s blood drive will be entered into contest to win a trip to Super Bowl LVII in Arizona.
There are three ways to schedule a blood donation appointment for this drive:
All donors will be given a water bottle through the American Red Cross.
Those giving blood can use RapidPass to complete a pre-donation reading and health history online before arriving at the blood drive site. This can save several minutes at the appointment.
Anyone with questions about Hingham’s blood drive are encouraged to call Art Robert at Town Hall, 781-741-1451 ext. 2409 or email roberta@hingham-ma.gov.
Learn More
To learn more about the serious need for blood supply donations, see the American Red Cross donation information page.
Some commonly asked questions about blood donations include:
Is it safe to give blood?
Donating blood is a safe process. A new sterile needle is used when collecting a donor’s blood and then the needle is discarded. A majority of donors feel fine after donating blood. Some donors may experience lightheadedness, upset stomach or a small bruise or pain where the needle was inserted. Very few donors may experience a loss of consciousness or nerve damage but this is an extremely rare occurrence.
How long does the blood donation process take?
A typical whole blood donation takes approximately 30–45 minutes, with the actual blood draw lasting on average between 8–10 minutes.
Can I donate if I have received a COVID-19 vaccine?
You may still donate blood, platelets and plasma after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Knowing the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine is important in determining your blood donation eligibility. If you’ve received a COVID-19 vaccine, you’ll need to provide the manufacturer name when you come to donate. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccine and blood donor eligibility information.
Should I wear a mask when I give blood?
The Red Cross only collects blood from individuals who are healthy and feeling well at the time of donation. To help keep everyone attending Red Cross blood drives and visiting blood donation centers safe as COVID-19 cases are surging again, the Red Cross requires all blood donors, staff and others to wear a face mask regardless of their vaccination status.
For a full list of commonly asked questions about blood donations, visit the American Red Cross FAQ page.