First-Time Donors

Thank you for deciding to save a life. Below you'll find answers to questions you might have as you prepare to make your first blood donation.

Am I eligible to donate blood?

While the vast majority of Colorado's population is eligible to donate blood, less than four percent does in a given year. Find out if you're eligible.

Is donating blood safe?

Donating blood is completely safe. Sterile, disposable needles and supplies are used once and are safely discarded after each donation. You cannot get HIV/AIDS or any other disease by donating blood.

Where can I donate blood?

You can donate blood at a community donor center (CDC) or a mobile blood drive. Find a CDC or blood drive near you.

Do I need to schedule an appointment or can I walk-in to a Bonfils donor center or blood drive?

While Bonfils strongly encourages you to schedule an appointment to make the best use of donor and staff time and donation equipment and resources, we do our best to accomodate everyone so we do accept walk-in donors without an appointment.  Wait times could be longer for walk-in donors as we accomodate those donors who have a scheduled appointment first.

How long does it take to donate blood?

It takes about one hour to donate a unit of  whole blood. The donation itself takes less than 10 minutes, but plan extra time to complete your donor questionnaire, conduct a health screening and make a post-donation visit to our canteen.

How often can I donate blood?

You can donate whole blood every 56 days, up to six times per year.

What can I expect when I donate?

Donating blood is a safe, easy and convenient way to support your community. Visit Donating Step by Step to learn more about the whole blood donation process. 

How is my blood donation used?

Bonfils provides 80 percent of Colorado's blood supply and distributes blood to 200 hospitals and healthcare facilities where it is used in a variety of medical treatments. Your single blood donation can save and enhance the lives of up to three patients.

What should I do to prepare for my blood donation?

Be sure to eat a healthy, low-fat meal within the four hours prior to your donation. Drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids both before and after you donate.