Houchin Community Blood Bank - Bakersfield, California

Steve B.

Everyone is so friendly and caring. The best community service in the world. Somebody else does all the work, I get to lay down on a comfy bed, I get free food, and I get to take the credit!
This place definitely makes blood loss fun!!

Kyle L.

Went here after not donating since back in high school at Stockdale high school 7 years ago. Go mustangs! Class of 11!

Used to be the main Houchin Bloodbank but now that's off Buena Vista at their new location over there.

Giving blood or platelets or plasma directly saves lives and they are always in a constant need.

By donating your not only saving lives but it also can go towards other research programs to help with other diseases and conditions that face us.

This location makes it very easy and virtually pain free throughout the entire process and at the end they give you a bunch of freebies like : A free shirt, coupons for a free personal pizza at rustys, discounts to some other places as well. And food at the end of your donation. They give a large selection of treats at the end like ice cream or coffee or doughnuts or string cheese or hot chocolate or tea etc. But the reward is giving the community a helping hand with your donation.

When you come inside the location you'll see pictures frames all over of random people. Each one of those are people who have donated over 10 gallons which takes over 13 years apparently. Which to me is pretty cool.

Start donating today to get your picture down the road. There's also cool stuff you get along the way like licence plate frames etc.

They are very safe about everything they do throughout the entire process and make you feel very comfortable.

You can donate blood every 2 months and platelets and plasma every week or so. If you donate blood you can come one month later to donate platelets and plasma as well.

Come down and help out and do your part for the community. Take some friends, the whole process takes about an hour if not less and they also have appointments available if you want to make sure there isn't much of a wait.

Michele P.

The staff were all kind, knowledgeable, and helpful. I typically am low on iron and can’t donate, but they were helpful in answering my questions and testing me first to see if I would be eligible before doing the questionnaire. They were respectful of my time and very kind. It was a great experience donating at this location.

Tami K.

First time donor at 63 and I couldn’t feel better for giving into selflessness. All my born days of selfishness are now gone. The process was easy; the staff were friendly and professional. I don’t know why I’ve not thought of doing this before and because of the ease, the need, and staff I will be donating the rest of my days. The gift of life is the most precious and I know now how easy it is to help.

FreedomFighter

I went to Houchin Blood Bank the other day after reading the article in the newspaper about the blood bank being out of blood. I’ve donated here in the past and have always had a wonderful experience. Today was no exception. Upon my arrival, I was greeted by the reception staff, who were very professional and friendly getting me checked in. After completing my check in, I was as assisted by a very friendly young lady named Lisa. Lisa was very patient and outgoing throughout the whole process. This young lady made a rather uncomfortable experience more bearable. If you decide to answer the call to help your community and donate blood, make sure to stop at Houchin Blood Bank on Truxtun. Clean facility and friendly staff!

Lisa O.

Everyone there is very friendly and welcoming. They try to be as fast as they can, all while making sure you are comfortable and feeling at ease. Highly recommend to everyone. It's for a great cause and only takes a few minutes.

Mark F.

Houchin Community Blood Bank is always amazing! Their staff is friendly, knowledgeable and just good people. I just completed 8 gallons so I have had lots of experience with them over the years. They continue to be professional and they do a wonderful, life-saving service for our community.

M D.

Receptionist is exceptional. She is really informed of everything. I was glad I called because I had gone to the East Hills location for 1 o’clock appointment. The place was locked up so I called and got in at Truxton. I had a very kind and informative phlebotomist who checked me in and drew my blood and I thought she had a wonderful job!