Each day, the American Red Cross holds nearly 500 blood drives. These blood drives would not be possible without the commitment of community organizations that volunteer to serve as sponsors or hosts, providing opportunities for blood donors to roll up a sleeve for patients in need.
A REWARDING EXPERIENCE
Hosting a Red Cross blood drive can be a rewarding experience for organizations such as businesses, schools, churches and other civic groups. It is also a great occasion to build morale and camaraderie as fellow members, students or employees work together to give back to their community.
Red Cross blood drive sponsors are critical in helping meet the constant need for blood and by offering convenient opportunities for blood donors to give. Almost any organization can support the Red Cross by hosting blood drives. Blood drives can be held either on a Red Cross blood donation bus or in the facility of the hosting organization. A Red Cross representative will work with the sponsor to determine the best set up for the specific blood drive.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO GIVE
This fall, help patients in need by donating blood or platelets. Accident and burn victims, organ transplant patients, heart surgery patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease may need blood products.
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.
For more information about hosting a blood drive or to schedule an appointment to donate, please visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
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.
