The Power of Donating Blood

The lifesaving impact—especially in January

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood—patients facing surgery, trauma, complicated births, or cancer treatment. That need doesn’t slow down in winter, even when donations do. When you donate, you help stabilize supplies that hospitals count on every day.

A single donation can help save up to three lives. One hour of your time can become three chances at recovery—three moments of hope for three different families.

How this connects to A Week Away

At A Week Away, our mission is to finance and coordinate week-long, no-cost Respites for families navigating a life-threatening illness—so they can rest, reset, and keep going. When donors give blood, they’re offering a different kind of Respite: physical relief that helps make those moments of peace possible. Learn more about what we do.

How to donate in January (quick guide)

• Check eligibility & book a time.
• Hydrate & eat beforehand. Bring a photo ID and wear sleeves that roll up easily.
• Bring a friend. Double the impact—and make it a shared act of kindness.
• Give regularly if you can. Whole-blood donors are typically eligible every 56 days.

Where to donate near Lancaster

• Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Blood Donor Center — Schedule an appointment.
• Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank — Find a drive or donor center.
• American Red Cross — Search by ZIP / find a drive.

Can’t give blood right now?

You can still fuel Respite weeks for families in medical crisis. Consider a gift to A Week Away on our Support page—or share this post to encourage a new donor to roll up their sleeve. 

Ready to be a lifeline this month? Schedule an appointment at a local center—or search by ZIP—and help give someone a second chance.