DETROIT (Oct. 18, 2023) – Beginning Oct. 21, people who give blood will be automatically entered to win a $5,000 gift card as the American Red Cross continues
to work around the clock to help rebuild its blood and platelet supply.

The gift card incentive runs through Nov. 9. There will be three winners, one chosen at random each week during the three-week incentive. Donors will also receive a $10 gift card by email to a restaurant merchant of their choice. Learn more at RedCrossBlood.org/Lunch.

Since announcing a national blood shortage a month ago, thousands of donors across the country and in Michigan have rolled up a sleeve to donate blood. To help meet the needs of patients and hospitals, the Red Cross must collect at least 10,000 additional blood and platelet donations each week over the next month. 

Donors of all blood types are urgently needed,  especially platelet donors and type O blood donors.   

The Red Cross offers three ways to make an appointment to donate at your convenience:

• Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App
• Go to RedCrossBlood.org  
• Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)

As the cold and flu season approaches, the Red Cross reminds donors that they can give blood after receiving a flu shot, provided they are feeling healthy and well on the day of their donation appointment. Likewise, there is no deferral or wait time after receiving the updated COVID-19 vaccination.

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MEDIA CONTACT:     David Olejarz / david.olejarz@redcross.org / 313-303-0606

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.