The American Red Cross needs new and current blood and platelet donors to take time out of the hectic holiday season to roll up a sleeve. Donations often decline from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, yet the need for blood is constant.
GIVE MORE LIFE THIS HOLIDAY This year, give a present that is packaged without pretty ribbon or colorful paper – but means so much to recipients. Blood and platelet donors of all types are needed to help ensure a sufficient supply of this lifesaving gift for accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease.
To encourage donations around the holidays, those who come to give blood or platelets from December 21 – January 7 will receive a long sleeve Red Cross t-shirt as a special thank you, while supplies last.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY Eligible donors are encouraged to make and keep donation appointments now. For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate blood or platelets, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Donors can also save time during the busy holiday season by completing a RapidPass. With RapidPass, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass, follow the instructions at redcrossblood.org/RapidPass.
Blood can be safely donated every 56 days. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Take a class and be ready to respond if an emergency strikes.
