BPS has partnered with OneBlood to share the opportunity to give back to the community with the most precious gift - the gift of life.

The Big Red Bus will be at the Educational Services Facility (ESF) on the following dates:                  

2024

• Thursday, March 14

• Thursday, May 16

• Thursday, July 18

• Thursday, September 12

• Thursday, November 14 

Tips for before donating blood:

• Get a good night's sleep.

• Drink an extra 16 oz. of water before the donation.

• Eat a healthy meal before your donation.

• Maintain a healthy iron level in your diet by eating iron rich foods, such as red meat, fish, poultry, beans, spinach, iron-fortified cereals and raisins.  

   

     Blood Donor Basics

• Health Benefits for donors
  From reducing the risk of having a heart attack to discovering potential underlying health issues—donating blood has many health benefits for the donor as well. 

• You may be less likely to have a heart attack
  Donating regularly may help your blood flow and result in fewer arterial blockages. In fact, some studies have shown that men who donate at least three times a year can drastically reduce their risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

• Donating can keep your iron level balanced
  Having too much iron in your blood can contribute to hardening of the arteries. When you donate blood, the amount of iron in your blood is reduced. The iron will be replenished by the food you eat after donating, but regular donations can balance your iron level.

• You get a free wellness checkup
  Each time you donate you'll receive a free wellness checkup which includes blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count and cholesterol screening. These wellness checkups have saved the lives of some of those who volunteer to give blood.