Support Us Button Widget

How to donate blood in Lakeland, FL

Donating blood is an effective way to give back to the community. Here’s what to know in Lakeland to make a donation.

Blue blood donation ribbon on solid purple background

Give back to Lakeland by donating blood.

Photo by Artem Podre via Pexels

Table of Contents

Whether you’re an avid donor or looking to give back for the first time, donating blood is a simple yet effective way to give back to the community + make a positive impact on local lives.

The entire process is not only safe, but pretty painless, too.🩸

Places to donate blood around Lakeland

Here’s what you need to do

  • Read up on the requirements for donating blood to see if you are eligible to give blood.
  • If you’re ready, book a visit online (walk-ins are also accepted).
  • You’ll be asked to complete a Blood Donor History Questionnaire to fasttrack your appointment. No worries if you can’t get to it ahead of time, you can always complete it on site if that works better for you.
  • When you arrive to donate blood, expect a short physical (temperature, pulse + blood pressure check, and a small finger prick to check your hemoglobin levels).
  • If you’re cleared to donate, sit back and relax — it’ll be over before you know it.

Things to remember

  • Eat a hearty meal beforehand + give yourself an hour to digest.
  • Drink an extra 16 oz of room temperature water prior to your donation in order to prep your veins. Make sure to continue drinking extra water after donating.
  • Avoid strenuous activities for the rest of the day.
  • Incorporate iron rich foods into your meals after donating.
  • Eating + drinking properly beforehand will help prevent passing out. However, if you do pass out, you are in the care of well-trained nurses who will look after you.

Fun + bloody facts

If you can’t donate blood, don’t sweat it. Check out other ways to give back in Lakeland.

*Disclaimer: This is not a comprehensive resource for donating blood. Please do your research beforehand and speak with your doctor before donating.

More from LALtoday
This city boasts top-ranked medical providers and specialty services. Our comprehensive guide will help you find the care you need — whether you’re new to town or just looking around.
We’re here to make your flying process plane and simple.
The store finds vacant retail spaces and signs temporary leases to set up shop leading up to Halloween — but locations can change each year.
Check out a book, then check out these unique library features that cardholders can enjoy.
These events bring together your favorite vendors on the same day each month in nearby downtown areas and historic districts.
We keep an eye on your clicks to make sure LALtoday is always filled with content you love.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Just like each dog breed has its own personality, each community in Lakeland shines with unique characteristics. Which breed sounds most like you?
If you don’t have coffee already in hand, consider this your sign to grab some.
Ready for your lunch break? Check out these 30+ lunches from hearty salads to diner-style bites.