We all expect blood to be there for us, but barely a fraction of those who can give do. Yet sooner or later, virtually all of us will face a time of great vulnerability in which we will need blood. And that time is all too often unexpected.

From its beginning, the American Red Cross has formed a community of service, of generous, strong and decent people bound by beliefs beyond themselves. The honor, spirit and resources of the American people comes forth with neighbors helping neighbors in need – during earthquakes, floods, fires, storms – and also for the deeply personal and often quiet disasters that require a gift of blood.

What you should know before giving blood:

Here is a very short and easy checklist:

• To donate blood, you must be at least 17 years old (16 with parents’ permission), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good overall health and have not donated in the last 56 days (8 weeks).
• Eat and drink before you come to give blood. Don’t skip meals before or after you give blood. Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids without caffeine, preferably water before and after the donation.
• If you have been temporarily deferred before because of a low iron count, eat raisins, whole grains, red meat, or leafy green vegetables before you come to donate.
• Bring a picture form of identification with you.