Memorial Blood Centers Opens New Donor Center

DULUTH, Minn. — Memorial Blood Centers celebrated the opening of their new state-of-the-art donor center Tuesday.

The new spot is located on East Central Entrance in Duluth. The large space was completely gutted and remodeled to fit the needs for those donating blood. Around 8 to 10 people can donate at the same time.

This is the first location where Northland donors can donate platelets, which are blood cells that are essential for normal blood clotting. There are also snacks, a gas fireplace and comfy couches to make it a welcoming environment.

“We’re really very focused on making sure folks feel comfortable. That they feel they’re in a clean environment and they feel just really relaxed as if they’re at home. We’d like to make it a really great experience because blood donation needs have really gone up,” said Angela Engblom, Senior Manager for Memorial Blood Centers in Duluth.

An 8-year-old leukemia patient named Bennett was at the ceremony with his family along with his blood donor. The young boy has been in remission for 3 years now and they say blood donations were a huge part of that. Bennett’s dad hopes the new center will allow more people to donate.

“My hope would be that this brings out more people to donate and gets the word out that there’s always a need and your donations can make a huge impact on our community and individuals alike,” said Tom Young, father of Bennett.

To donate blood, you can schedule an appointment online. Walk ins are welcome as well.