Like the rest of the nation, we are experiencing a blood shortage. Please schedule a donation today.

Blood Donor Center

Donating Blood During COVID-19

Even as COVID-19 spreads across the United States and globally, the need for blood donations remains. Learn more about why blood donations are essential, the time requirement and how you can schedule an appointment.

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Children’s National Hospital established the Edward J. Miller, Sr., Blood Donor Center in 1990 to support the need for blood and blood products at the hospital. As the number of patients treated at Children’s National continues to grow, the need for blood donations becomes greater than ever. Your blood can help premature babies, trauma survivors, patients that need surgery or those with sickle cell, cancer or a blood disorder.

How You Can Help

Learn about our basic blood donor eligibility requirements. If you are uncertain of your eligibility, read our more detailed requirements .
Schedule a donation appointment.
Host a blood drive.
Learn about blood donation and how your blood is used.
Read about the impact of blood donation on sickle cell patients (PDF).

What to Expect When You Donate Blood

Donating blood at Children’s National? Watch our virtual tour to prepare for your visit at our Blood Donor Center, located on the second floor of the Main Hospital.

Contact the Blood Donor Center

To schedule a donation appointment and/or host a blood drive, call 202-476-5437. For urgent assistance outside of business hours, please call 202-476-5000.

Hours of Operation

Monday - Friday from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. and for platelet donations 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.
The 2nd and 4th Saturday from 7 a.m. - 2 p.m. and for platelet donations 7 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Become a Blood Donor Ambassador

The Blood Donor Ambassador Program at Children’s National Hospital was created to meet the growing need for blood donations for children with sickle cell disease. Learn more about how you can become an advocate in your community for this life-saving treatment.

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