Community Blood Drive at Coon Rapids Fire Station 3 on September 18

Community Blood Drive at Coon Rapids Fire Station 3 on September 18

A vital community blood drive is being held on Thursday, September 18, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Coon Rapids Fire Station 3, located at 3150 111th Avenue NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55433.

Hosted in partnership with the American Red Cross, this event is part of an ongoing effort to ensure a strong and reliable blood supply for hospitals and patients in need. Blood donations collected at community drives support a wide range of critical treatments, from surgeries and cancer therapies to emergency medical care and chronic conditions such as sickle cell disease. According to the Red Cross, a single blood donation can help save up to three lives.

How to Prepare for Your Donation

To make your donation smooth and successful, consider these steps before your appointment:

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water or other non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic fluids.
• Eat Well: Have a healthy, iron-rich meal; avoid fatty foods that can affect blood quality.
• Rest: Get a good night’s sleep prior to donating.
• Dress Comfortably: Wear a shirt with sleeves that can be easily rolled above the elbow.
• Bring ID: A valid photo ID (driver’s license, donor card, or other accepted ID) is required.

Eligibility Requirements

General eligibility guidelines include:

• Being at least 17 years old (in Minnesota, 16 with parental consent).
• Weighing at least 110 pounds.
• Being in good health and feeling well on donation day.
• Having waited at least 56 days since your last whole blood donation.

Other factors, such as recent tattoos or piercings, travel history, or medications, may affect eligibility. For a full list of requirements, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.

What to Expect

The entire donation process typically lasts about one hour, though the actual blood draw takes only 8–10 minutes. Donors will:

1. Register and present ID.
2. Complete a health screening, including a confidential health history questionnaire and basic vital checks (temperature, pulse, blood pressure, hemoglobin).
3. Donate blood using a sterile, single-use needle—approximately one pint is collected.
4. Recover and refresh with a snack and drink while staff monitor donors for 15 minutes before departure.

How to Schedule

Appointments are encouraged. Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter “Coon Rapids Fire” in the search bar to find and reserve your spot.

By giving blood, community members play a direct role in saving lives and supporting the health and resilience of patients across Minnesota and beyond.

MinneapoliMedia