ABC13

Here’s how you can help Gulf Coast Blood meet demand of 1,000 donations a day

17 February, 2026

This story comes from our news partner, ABC13. Read the article here.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Eyewitness News is again partnering with Gulf Coast Blood for our annual blood drive in honor of the center’s mission to meet local demand, which takes about 1,000 blood donations per day.

All successful donors will receive a Gulf Coast Blood power bank changer, a free A1C screening to help measure blood sugar levels, and one general admission ticket to Big Rivers Waterpark.

Be sure to credit KTRK/ABC13 at your appointment.

Plus, your blood donation stays in our community.

How do I know if I’m eligible to give blood?

The following requirements are for all blood and blood component donors:

– Must be 17 years or older or 16 years* with a parental consent form (*16 year olds are only eligible to donate whole blood).
– Personal identification must be presented at time of donation.
– Must feel well the day of donation.

There are also specific donor requirements for donation types such as whole blood, double red cells, platelets and plasma, which you can view here.

In addition, people once deferred may now be eligible to give, thanks to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) changes recommended in 2023.

How do I prepare for my donation?

– Make sure you eat a hearty meal and drink plenty of fluids before you donate.
– Get a good night’s sleep the night before your donation.
– Complete your health questionnaire.

Gulf Coast Blood also has extensive materials to help prepare first time donors, including what to expect before, during, and after the donation.

Find that information on their preparation page.

What if I can’t make it the day of the ABC13 Blood Drive?

You can still donate blood!

Gulf Coast Blood has 18 donor centers – permanent donation sites in communities throughout southeast Texas.

You can find all of the locations on their website.

Fast facts about Gulf Coast Blood

– Gulf Coast Blood is the only blood provider to Houston and its surrounding communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
– U.S. blood donors are unpaid volunteers and each donation supports critical care such as surgeries, cancer treatments, and emergency procedures.
– Gulf Coast Blood has served the community since Jan. 1, 1975.
– The non-profit 501c3 is not affiliated with the American Red Cross.
– Gulf Coast Blood is one of the largest community blood centers in the country, supporting more than 170 hospitals across 26 counties, including the Texas Medical Center.

In addition to the above, Gulf Coast Blood opened a new donor center in the Texas Medical Center in 2025, with plans to open two additional donor centers in 2026.