President Richard Nixon designated January as National Blood Donor Month in 1970 and donating blood is a great way to give back to the community without breaking out the wallet.

As stated by the American Red Cross, blood is needed every two seconds around the country. A car accident victim could need up to 100 pints of blood. National Blood Donor Month was declared in order to increase donation and congratulate blood donors.

Donating blood is very important and necessary. Around 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day and one donation can save a life or more.

Not only do blood donations help the receivers, but they can also be beneficial for the donor, since they include a free blood test and reduce risk of cancer by the removal of iron build up. Donors can give once every 56 days, every eight weeks.

Donors must be at least seventeen to donate blood, or sixteen with parental consent. Other requirements are to be at least 110 pounds and in good health.  Type O- blood can be put in use by any patient, which can be very helpful.

This process takes four steps: registration, medical history and physical, donation and refreshments.  Anyone can make an appointment by downloading the Red Cross app or by calling their number which is 1-800-733-2767.