The American Red Cross asks people to make a blood or platelet donation appointment now to help the blood supply stay ahead of building seasonal pressures. During May, many people are gearing up for the end of the school year or making plans for summer fun, which can disrupt schedules and cause a drop in donation appointments.

As a thank-you to those who come to give May 11-18, 2026, at new Red Cross Blood and Platelet Donation Centers in Indianapolis and Noblesville, donors will automatically be entered for a chance to win two tickets to the Indianapolis 500 located in the Tower Terrace Section. There will be three drawings, and winners will be contacted to pick up tickets ahead of race day on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

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.