I'm regular blood donor and in my state (EU) I always did it for free. I think there is an option to get paid for it, but never even ask about it.
Here you can donate to specific person (if your blood types are compatible) and even you get access to test results they did on your blood before it went to receiver. They do battery of tests including tumor markers, HIV, hepatitis, syphilis and a lot more, then the blood will be separated for its essentials and will be transferred to those in need. And if there is something wrong with your test results they will notify you. At the end you will get 2eur cheque, free tea and some biscuit.
I will also never request money for my blood. Sometime, in the future, there could come situation when I (or someone dare to me) will need it and besides it those tests alone are quite expensive if you ask for them independently.