Media Contact: Pooja Klebig
Telephone: 408.205.3670
Pooja.klebig@redcross.org

SAN JOSE, CA. January 25, 2024 – The American Red Cross would like to express gratitude to all the San Jose elected officials and community partners who joined us at our Blood Donation Center to donate blood and bring awareness about the current national blood shortage, honoring the Red Cross partnership within our community with the support of these exceptional leaders.

We’d like to thank County Supervisor Joe Simitian and Councilmember Dev Davis for rolling up their sleeve to donate blood. We also recognize Councilmembers David Cohen and Bien Doan and San Jose Fire Department Assistant Chief Jim Williams for being present and for their ongoing support Red Cross programs and blood services.

To view footage from today’s press conference and general B-roll, please follow these links that are available for media usage: Red Cross Elected Officials x Blood Shortage Press Conference Footage

The national blood supply remains at critically low levels. Blood drives have been canceled in nearly every state where the Red Cross collects blood. As a result, nearly 15,000 blood and platelet donations have gone uncollected this month alone. In addition to dangerous road conditions, many Americans have dealt with flight and shipping delays, and the Red Cross is no different. Snow, ice and extreme temperatures have made it tougher to move vital blood products across the Red Cross network, affecting deliveries to hospitals in some locations.

Individuals are urged to make an appointment now to give blood or platelets by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a thank-you, all those who come to give Feb. 1-29, 2024, will receive a $20 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Heart for details.

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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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