Celebrating the Gift of Life: World Blood Donor Day

man in Red Cross baseball hat on blood donor bed

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Tennessee resident Shaun Brennan has proven that one donor can make a significant impact on hospital patient care by recently giving his 500th donation of blood or platelets, a milestone that less than one percent of all donors in the Red Cross national system achieve.

Woman in red shirt on blood donor bed giving blood

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Venezuelan American Marcela Monsalve lives in New York City where she donates blood. “I believe that all of us who are able to should do our small part for the community. I feel that donating blood has a direct impact on the lives of those who receive it, and it’s much easier to find an hour than an entire day for other forms of volunteering,” she said.

Four women, one on a blood donor bed, stand in a Red Cross blood donation facility.

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Mexican American Stephanie Purdy and her sisters donated blood for the first time in honor of their dad who needed multiple blood transfusions after a heart attack. “My dad was given a second life. He used to be a very serious and rigid person and after his surgery he became more loving. He understands how fragile life is and how it can change in an instant. Those 15 minutes that someone took to donate gave my dad years of life.”

Four men stand outside a Red Cross blood donation facility holding blood donor signs.

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Setting aside their nerves, Mexican-born Omar Rodriguez and his brothers came together to donate blood for the first time in North Carolina, where they live and operate their businesses. “We were moved by stories about accident victims, mothers with childbirth complications, and the ongoing need for blood. When you hear that donating blood can save a life, it really hits you. Serving a diverse Latino community, it’s not about nationality ─ it’s about humanity. Today it’s them; tomorrow it could be us.”

June 08, 2026

On June 14, the American Red Cross celebrates World Blood Donor Day, honoring all those who support its lifesaving mission through blood donation. Blood and blood products such as platelets are essential for patients battling chronic illnesses like cancer and sickle cell disease, as well as for those undergoing surgery, experiencing postpartum hemorrhage, or recovering from serious accidents ─ some patients may require up to 100 units of blood.

In the United States, someone needs blood every two seconds. It is through the generosity of volunteer donors that patients receive the blood they need and have more time with their family.

Last year, more than 4 million people donated blood with the Red Cross, including a 7% increase in Latino donors who rolled up their sleeves to help others in need.

Donating blood is safe, simple and convenient. The entire process takes about one hour, with the donation itself lasting just 8-10 minutes. Each whole blood donation can be made into different products. Because of this, one hour of your time can help save multiple lives.

To support our mission of saving lives, schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or visit RedCrossBlood.org to find a nearby donation center.

As a special thank-you, donors will receive a $15 e-gift card to the merchant of their choice.* Plus, they’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,500 gift cards.

To those donating for the first time, those who just scheduled their first appointment, those who give on their birthdays, and the dedicated donors celebrating donation milestones ─ thank you for making a difference.

Supporters Help Power Lifesaving Blood Services
The American Red Cross provides nearly 40% of the nation’s blood supply, more than any other organization. Generous donations from Blood Saves Lives partners help the Red Cross collect, test, process and store blood and blood products, ensuring lifesaving blood is available for patients in need. Thank you for your commitment to the Red Cross mission: Carls Foundation, Herbalife, Orkin, Teresa and Byron Pollitt, Six Flags Charities, Sport Clips and The Vertex Foundation.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.