Volusia County to Host Multiple Community Blood Drives as Part of National EMS Week

Posted On: May 14, 2026

As part of National EMS Week, May 17-23, Volusia County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will hold two community blood drives, giving residents an opportunity to support local healthcare and emergency services. Volusia County EMS is partnering with OneBlood and the Volusia Ambulance Association to host the events.

The first blood drive will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, May 18, at 112 Carswell Ave. in Holly Hill. A second blood drive is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, in the parking lot of the Historic Courthouse, 125 W. New York Ave. in DeLand.

Donors will receive a $20 eGift card and sunshade from OneBlood, along with a complimentary wellness checkup that includes blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count, and cholesterol screening. Through OneBlood's donor platform, participants may also receive updates when their donation is delivered to a hospital to help patients in need.

Blood donations are essential for hospitals and emergency healthcare providers, helping ensure lifesaving resources are available for trauma patients, surgeries, cancer treatments, and other medical emergencies. A single donation can help multiple patients.

Donors must be at least 16 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds. Sixteen-year-old donors must provide a signed parental or guardian consent form, and all donors must present a photo ID at the time of donation. Health insurance is not required to donate blood, and donors do not need to provide proof of insurance.

Residents planning to donate are encouraged to drink plenty of water, eat a healthy meal beforehand, avoid fatty foods, consume iron-rich foods in the days leading up to the donation, and bring a list of current medications.

Additional information about blood donation and donor eligibility is available at www.oneblood.org.