Bloomington, Indiana – Bloomington residents have a chance to make a meaningful impact this holiday season by participating in an upcoming blood drive hosted by IU Health Bloomington. The American Red Cross blood drive will take place on Friday, December 19, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Indiana University Health Sciences Building, located at 2631 E Discovery Parkway. Appointments can be scheduled online at RedCrossBlood.org using the code IUHBLOOM, making it easy for donors to reserve a time slot.
The event comes at a time when the need for blood is especially critical. “Blood and platelets are essential for saving lives every day in hospitals across the nation,” said Rhonda Grimm, MT(ASCP), IU Health Bloomington Laboratory–Blood Bank Technical Specialist. “They can’t be manufactured, which is why we appreciate every donation.” Each contribution has the potential to save multiple lives, from patients battling cancer to victims of accidents or individuals undergoing surgery. While recipients may never meet the donors, the impact of each donation resonates across hospitals and homes in the community.
IU Health Bloomington has relied heavily on local donors this year, using more than 2,800 units of red blood cells, 280 units of platelets, and 320 units of plasma in 2025 alone. These numbers underscore the continuous demand for lifesaving blood products, with blood or platelets needed every two seconds somewhere in the United States. Despite the pressing need, only about 3% of age-eligible people donate blood annually, highlighting the importance of community participation in drives like this one.
To encourage donations during the holiday season, the American Red Cross is offering a limited-edition long-sleeved Red Cross t-shirt to those who donate between December 19 and January 4, while supplies last. The incentive is a small gesture of thanks for donors who give their time and generosity to help others. Scheduling an appointment is simple, and the Red Cross encourages residents to plan ahead to secure a convenient time.
For those considering donating, the process is safe, efficient, and rewarding. Donors are reminded that each donation can benefit more than one person, whether through direct transfusion or by supporting platelet and plasma needs in local hospitals. As Grimm explains, “Individuals battling cancer, car accident victims and surgery patients are just some of those who have benefited from blood donors here in Bloomington. They may not know the donors’ names, but those generous donations make a world of difference.”
Community members can schedule their appointments by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering IUHBLOOM, or by calling 1.800.RED.CROSS (1.800.733.2767). With the holiday season approaching, this blood drive represents a meaningful opportunity to give back, save lives, and strengthen the Bloomington community.
