Donate Blood

The American Red Cross – which supplies 40% of the nation’s blood – is facing the worst blood shortage in over a decade. This is the result of an unprecedented mix of circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic, low donor turnout, fewer locations allowing us to run mobile blood drives, and a shortage of staffing.

You can help! The Cornell American Red Cross urges eligible donors to give blood or platelets now to avoid further delays in vital medical treatments.

The TCAT will continue to provide free bus rides on Route #30 from the Cornell campus to the Shops at Ithaca Mall for donors with proof of appointment. Additionally, all donors at the Ithaca Mall will be eligible for a free t-shirt on-site.

Steps to Donate Blood:
1.) Click HERE and search for Ithaca’s zip code (14580).
2.) Find a location and a time slot that works for you.
3.) Create an account and made an appointment.
4.) Skip the wait by completing the RapidPass on the day of donation (you will need the QR code).
5.) Follow all the blood drive protocols (masks are required).

If you have any questions, please contact cornellredcross@cornell.edu.

Other Ways to Help

There are multiple ways to help the American Red Cross, including donating blood and becoming a blood drive volunteer. Here at the Cornell Red Cross, we do not facilitate donating blood as ANYONE can make an appointment themselves, however, we are always finding ways to promote this cause!

We do organize volunteers for blood drives and send out registration forms to our email listserv!

Become a Blood Drive Ambassador

The Blood Drive Ambassador will provide excellent customer service to enhance the blood donor experience in several ways.

Tasks:
1.) Temperature screener for potential donors and others.
2.) Welcome, inform, and check-in donors and help maximize their donation.
3.) Assist Collections Team members by sanitizing and disinfecting.
4.) Ensure that blood donors have all relevant information and appropriately answer questions.

Steps to Volunteer with Us:
1.) Complete our Registration Form which is emailed 1-2 weeks prior to a blood drive.
2.) The official volunteer schedule is emailed 1 week prior to the date.
3.) Arrive 15 minutes early! Volunteers have free TCAT rides on route #30. 
4.) Log hours on Volunteer Connect!

If you have any questions, please contact cornellredcross@cornell.edu.