NAWIC Southwest Missouri #366 is partnering with the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks for a blood drive throughout WIC Week!
Go by (or preferably schedule an appointment) the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks – Springfield Donor Center at 220 W. Plainview Road, Springfield, MO sometime between March 4-10, 2024. Make sure you tell mention you are there for WIC Week to support NAWIC Southwest Missouri #366! Even better? Bring a friend with you!
WIC Week does not include specific events on Wednesday, so it would be a great time to schedule a spot to give blood! It is encouraged not to donate the day before or day of heavier activities, so plan to go earlier in the week if you are joining us for the Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Morning on March 9th.
Donor Center is open:
Monday – Friday from 8 am – 6 pm
Saturday from 7 am – 1 pm
Sunday from 9 am – 3 pm
There is no registration required through NAWIC, but an appointment is strongly encouraged through the Community Blood Center. To schedule, call 417-227-5006 or schedule online here.
Additional details and tips:
How do I schedule an appointment?
Just click here, and pick the best time for you! Plan to send about an hour there. If you make an appointment can’t make it, please cancel with the Community Blood Center 48 hours in advance.
What’s a QuikPass? Do I need one?
A QuikPass (available here) is not an appointment, but it is helpful to complete the day you are scheduled to donate. Although it is not required, it will save you time when you arrive! Think of it as a pre-check in or check out the FAQ here.
What are requirements for donors?
Donors must:
• weigh at least 110 pounds
• be in good health
• be at least 17 years old (16-year-olds may donate blood if they have specific written permission from their parent or guardian)
Tips for Success:
Although a blood donation is easy, following a few simple steps before you arrive may make your experience more comfortable.
• Get a good night’s sleep and drink plenty of extra fluids.
• Eat a well-balanced meal approximately two to three hours before donating.
• Never attempt to donate on an empty stomach.
• If you think that you have a condition that prevents you from donating, refer to our website for a more extensive listing of donation criteria.
Why donate?
A blood donation to Community Blood Center of the Ozarks is easy, safe and has a profound effect on others. The need for blood goes beyond what people see on television and the news. Blood is needed for individuals being treated for cancer, babies that are born prematurely, individuals with anemia and much more. You can help people who are undergoing surgery, recovering from accidents, or living with a blood disorder. All this can be achieved by making a simple decision to give.
Who will I help?
Patients at thirty-eight hospitals in Southwest Missouri, Northwest Arkansas and Southeast Kansas rely on Community Blood Center of the Ozarks donors to provide the blood they need.
Will it hurt?
A blood donor may feel a slight sting as the needle is inserted. The actual donation lasts only five to ten minutes and is usually pain free.
How long will it take?
From the time you register until the time you exit the post-donation refreshment area, you can expect to spend about an hour donating blood. The hour includes time before and after donating – you will NOT be actively donating blood the entire time. It’s typically only 10-15 minutes of the full hour process.
Is it safe?
Blood donation is very safe. The single use needle is sterile, as is the other donation equipment. It is impossible to get an infectious disease from donating blood. Millions of blood cells are made each minute in the human body, so the blood that is given will be replaced quickly. Negative reactions (light headedness or dizzyness) are rare and usually short lived.