Vitalant hosts regular blood drives in Butler County.

Did you know you have the power to save lives by donating blood?

Nonprofit blood provider Vitalant provides blood to most hospitals in Western Pennsylvania, including UPMC Passavant Cranberry and Butler Memorial.

However, since the pandemic, hospital patients are using blood donations faster than people are donating blood.

Blood donation is a safe, comfortable process that takes only about an hour — from registration to juice and cookies. The actual donation generally takes only about 10 minutes.

Most healthy people are eligible to donate blood. Every whole blood donation can potentially save three patients’ lives, because their blood is separated into three components: red cells, platelets and plasma.

Red cells are able help pediatric patients, trauma or surgery patients, and people with anemia.

Platelets are needed by those being treated for cancer, people with blood disorders, and patients receiving open-heart surgeries and organ transplants.

Plasma is given to patients in shock, and those with severe burns or clotting disorders

Vitalant encourages donors to eat a nutritious meal and drink plenty of water the day of their appointment.

Vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals can donate, and everyone should bring identification (such as a driver’s license). Masks are required for all donors, regardless of vaccination status.

Vitalant hosts regular blood drives in Butler County. In addition, there are two donation centers with regular hours:

Butler Health System

127 Oneida Valley Road, Suite 206

Butler, PA 16001

Butler Centre

2nd Floor

20421 Route 19

Cranberry Township, PA 16066

Those who get a COVID-19 vaccine or seasonal flu shot can give blood immediately if other eligibility requirements are met. Donors must feel well the day of their donation.

To learn more and schedule an appointment to donate, visit vitalant.org or call 877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).

Vitalant follows strict protocols to ensure the safety of donors, patients and staff, including social distancing and other precautions. To support a safe environment and most efficiently follow the latest CDC guidance, masks are required for all donors, staff, volunteers and guests at Vitalant blood drives and facilities regardless of vaccination status.

This advertorial was submitted by Vitalant.