The American Red Cross encourages blood donors to make an impact by giving blood this December. The last months of the year can be a challenge for many donors trying to juggle regular donation appointments with packed schedules full of seasonal activities and holiday planning.

Donors of all blood types − especially those with types O negative, O positive and B negative blood − are urged to make an appointment to donate now.

Make your appointment today to donate at the Quad Cities Holiday Blood Drive. The drive will be held from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10th at the American Red Cross Chapter Office, located at 1100 River Drive in Moline.

Presenting donors will be entered for a chance to win door prizes, receive special holiday treats and get to visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

Sign up for the drive by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and using sponsor code QuadCities, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767) or by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

The Red Cross is facing a drop in donor turnout this winter – a time when making and keeping appointments is critical to providing lifesaving blood products for patients over the holidays. More donors are needed to help keep the blood supply strong.

How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. 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.

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.