Celebrate more life and get summer ready! The American Red Cross urges donors to give now to help ensure a stable blood supply at a time when summer schedules and vacations could cause a drop in donation appointments. By donating blood or platelets this month, donors have the chance to return to give over the summer, which is a critical time to keep blood products on hospital shelves. Whole blood donors can give every 56 days, up to six times a year, and platelet donors can give every seven days, up to 24 times a year.

As a thank-you to those who come to give May 19-27, 2026, at new Red Cross Blood and Platelet Donation Centers in Indianapolis and Noblesville, donors will automatically be entered for a chance to win tickets to the Indiana Fever game against the Atlanta Dream on Thursday, June 4, 2026. Each winner will receive two tickets located in The Loft section and a free parking pass, along with complimentary food and beverages. There will be two drawings, and winners will be contacted to pick up their tickets ahead of the game.

In addition, those who come to give May 18-31, 2026, will receive an oversized Red Cross beach towel, while supplies last. 

To make an appointment, please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org.

How to Donate Blood and Platelets

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 and platelet 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 Indiana Region:
The American Red Cross of Indiana Region serves 6.9 million people in 104 counties in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio through its chapters: Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, and Greater Indianapolis (Regional Headquarters). The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit us at Redcross.org/Indiana or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @indianaredcross.