January is one of my least favorite months of the year. It’s cold, it’s gray, and it somehow feels like it lasts approximately 100 days. But before we finally kick this month to the curb, there is something important worth talking about: January is National Blood Donor Month.

According to the American Red Cross, National Blood Donor Month has been observed every January since 1970. The goal is simple but critical — boost blood and platelet donations during winter, which is one of the hardest times of year to keep blood supplies stocked. Winter weather often leads to canceled blood drives, and seasonal illnesses like the flu can temporarily sideline otherwise willing donors. The result? A shortage at a time when the need never slows down.

Here’s the good news: donating blood is one of the quickest, easiest ways to make a real difference. One single donation can help save up to three lives. That’s a pretty incredible return on investment for about an hour of your time.

I’ve fallen off the wagon a bit, but I was donating blood semi-regularly since I was 18, and every time I do, I leave feeling like I’ve done something genuinely meaningful. It’s a small act with a huge impact — and one we sometimes forget about until it’s urgently needed.

So, who can donate? In general, individuals who are 17 years old (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in good overall health may be eligible. High school students and donors under 18 may also need to meet additional height and weight requirements.

There are also guidelines for how often you can donate. Whole blood donors must wait at least eight weeks (56 days) between donations. Power Red donors must wait 16 weeks (112 days). Platelet donors can give every seven days, up to 24 times per year. If that sounds like a lot, don’t worry — staff will walk you through everything.

If you’re thinking about donating, a little prep goes a long way. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate—drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your donation. Wear something comfortable, preferably with sleeves that are easy to roll up. And be sure to have a list of any medications you’re taking, both over-the-counter and prescription.

Wondering what actually happens when you arrive? Here’s the play-by-play:

First, staff and volunteers will sign you in and review basic eligibility information. You’ll show a donor card, driver’s license, or another form of ID, then read some information about the donation process. You’ll also take part in a brief, private health history interview and answer questions about your medical background and recent travel.

Next comes a quick health check — temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and a hemoglobin test from a finger prick. Full disclosure: in my opinion, this is the worst part. Those finger pricks sting more than the actual donation!

Then it’s time for the donation itself. A staff member will clean your arm and insert a brand-new, sterile needle. It feels like a quick pinch and is over in seconds. The actual blood draw takes about 8-10 minutes while you sit back and relax. Some donation types, like platelets or plasma, can take longer — up to two hours—but you’ll know that going in.

Once about a pint of blood has been collected, you’re all finished. Your arm gets bandaged (often with fun color options — very on brand), and then comes everyone’s favorite part: snacks. You’ll hang out for 10-15 minutes with juice, cookies, or even small sandwiches to make sure you’re feeling good before heading out.
After that, you’re free to go — just skip strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and alcohol for the rest of the day, and keep drinking plenty of fluids.

If you’re ready to roll up your sleeve, you can always find a blood drive near you at redcross.org/give-blood. Or, if you prefer to stay local, here are a few upcoming opportunities:

Penn College, Bush Campus Center
– January 28 & 29, 1–6 p.m.

Divine Providence, 1100 Grampian Blvd.
– February 12, 1–6 p.m.
– February 13, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

January may be long, gloomy, and dragging its feet — but it’s also the perfect time to do something good. If you’re able, consider donating blood. It’s a small act of kindness that can make a life-saving difference.