Because people are struggling? I don't get this logic. My criticism about the practice from when I participated during college is they don't pay nearly enough. Because they know the people doing it are somewhat desperate and in no position to bargain.

i have less problem with that part… if we want to encourage blood donation (we do, and people find it icky because needles) i think it’s perfectly fine

but it’d be much less cringe if it was: “take the day off work on us”, or “treat yourself to something nice today”

it’s the education costing money coupled with the fact that giving blood is among the only options that’s the problem imo

If they didn't pay (or "pay" with points/gift cards/etc) for people's donations, most people who donate blood products would stop. Donation isn't quick or easy, and most people are afraid of needles. Until somebody invents viable substitutes for blood, plasma, platelets and so on there will continue to be a need for blood products, and there needs to be some mechanism to encourage donations.