The Community of Madrid Blood Transfusion Center issued an urgent appeal on Wednesday for blood donations of types 0+, O-, A+, A-, and B- to bolster blood supplies in anticipation of medical needs arising from the train accident in Urda, Toledo. Two high-speed trains—one operated by Renfe and the other by Iryo—collided this morning on the Madrid-Andalusia line, which remains closed.
The best way to help from Madrid is to go to the nearest blood donation site and follow the instructions of the medical staff. There is no need to travel to the accident site or to the hospitals treating the emergency: the Madrid network collects and distributes donations to the centers that need them. Although the appeal is directed specifically at five groups, the Community of Madrid reminds everyone that all donations are welcome.
From downtown Madrid to Valdebernardo: where to donate today
The most convenient option for those in the city center is the mobile unit located at the corner of Gran Vía and Montera. It is open Monday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. The Red Cross blood donation center at 3 Juan Montalvo Street is also open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., except on holidays.
The Community of Madrid Blood Transfusion Center, located on Avenida de la Democracia s/n, near Valdebernardo, maintains a regular donation center. It is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Several locations within the capital’s hospital network have extended hours. The Gregorio Marañón Hospital is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and on October 28 and 29, it will add a second donation room at the Oncology Hospital for its blood drive. The San Carlos Clinical Hospital accepts donors Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; the 12 de Octubre Hospital, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; and La Paz Hospital, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Hospitals in Alcalá de Henares, Alcorcón, Arganda, Coslada, Fuenlabrada, Getafe, Leganés, Majadahonda, Móstoles, Parla, Torrejón de Ardoz, and Valdemoro also have blood donation sites. The safest option before heading out is to check the official directory of fixed donation sites and the mobile unit locator, which updates locations by municipality and date.
What You Need to Know Before Going
The basic requirements for donating are being between 18 and 65 years old, weighing more than 50 kilos, and being in good overall health. You must bring a valid ID and not be on an empty stomach: it is recommended that you have eaten something and be well-hydrated. The final decision always rests with the medical staff, who will conduct a brief interview and assessment before the blood draw.
Donating blood takes about ten minutes, and the entire process, including the snack afterward, usually takes around twenty minutes. If you’ve had a recent infection, are taking medication, have traveled abroad, or have recently gotten a tattoo, piercing, or acupuncture treatment, you should consult with the medical team beforehand. The Blood Center’s toll-free number for questions is 900 30 35 30.