Media Contact: Shelby Wells
(318) 272-8122 | shelby.wells@redcross.org
  

[YUMA, ARIZ., Oct. 12, 2026] — In October, the American Red Cross asks people to book a time to give blood or platelets to help keep the blood supply as strong as possible this fall. The seasons may change, but the need for blood is constant. Donors of all blood types are being called on to roll up a sleeve and give hope to hospital patients who rely on transfusions.

Make an appointment today by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App to schedule a donation appointment. Those who come to give now -Oct. 18, 2026, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Fall for details.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Oct. 13-15:

• Oct 13^th - Country Roads RV Village Ballroom, 5705 E. 32^nd St., Yuma, AZ 10 am – 4 pm
• Oct 14^th - Yuma Main Library Meeting Room, 2951 S. 21^st Dr., Yuma, AZ 10 am – 3 pm
• Oct 15^th – Stone Ridge Church Youth Bldg, 6300 E. 24^th St., Yuma, AZ 9 am – 2 pm

For all blood donors

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. 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.

Blood donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass^® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

Unable to donate?

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.

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.