SAN ANTONIO \u2013 Summer can be a tough season for blood banks around the country. As school lets out, donor appointments often dip while vacations, road trips and outdoor plans pick up.<\/p>\n
At the same time, more activity can lead to a larger need for blood. <\/p>\n
South Texas Blood & Tissue, one of the region\u2019s largest blood suppliers, helps keep more than 100 area hospitals and health care providers stocked and ready.<\/p>\n
One pint can help save up to three lives. Every blood type is needed.<\/p>\n
KSAT Community Phone Bank<\/p>\n
KSAT Community will host a blood donor registration drive for South Texas Blood & Tissue on Tuesday, June 30, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. <\/p>\n
Representatives will be on hand to answer questions and help callers register to donate.<\/p>\n
South Texas Blood & Tissue officials said blood collected locally stays in the region or can be sent wherever needed in an emergency.<\/p>\n
Representatives from South Texas Blood & Tissue will also be available to answer any questions for donors and help with registration.<\/p>\n
Other ways to help<\/a><\/p>\n Interested in doing more? Viewers and callers can also consider becoming a blood drive coordinator and organize a drive at a neighborhood location, community group or workplace.<\/p>\n What to know before you go<\/a><\/p>\n South Texas Blood & Tissue is looking for donors who meet these requirements:<\/p>\n 16 years old who weigh at least 120 pounds with a completed a\u00a0parental consent form<\/p>\n 17 years old who weigh at least 110 pounds<\/p>\n Valid ID<\/p>\n Get ready to give<\/a><\/p>\n Before you donate, South Texas Blood & Tissue recommends:<\/p>\n Eating\u00a0iron-rich meals\u00a0the night before and the morning of your donation<\/p>\n Drinking\u00a0plenty of water<\/p>\n Getting a\u00a0good night\u2019s rest<\/p>\n Filling out your\u00a0questionnaire\u00a0the day of your donation<\/p>\n South Texas Blood & Tissue offer more helpful tips before donating.<\/a><\/p>\n Types of donations taken<\/a><\/p>\n whole blood\u00a0<\/p>\n platelets\u00a0<\/p>\n dual red blood cells<\/p>\n \u2018I can\u2019t give blood because\u2026’<\/p>\n Think tattoos or piercings<\/a> automatically disqualify you? Think again. In most cases, they don\u2019t.<\/p>\n South Texas Blood & Tissue said there are guidelines and a few exceptions, but many donors with tattoos or piercings can donate right away or after a shorter wait period.<\/p>\n Even if you\u2019ve spent time in Europe<\/a>, you may still be eligible to donate blood. <\/p>\n KSAT Community operates in partnership with University Health and Randolph-Brooks Federal Credit Union. Click here <\/a>to read about other KSAT Community efforts. <\/p>\n