The Marshall community is invited to help save lives at the annual Spring into Life blood drive March 8 and 9 at the Marshall Area YMCA. This is one of the largest two-day blood drives in southwestern Minnesota, collecting more than 1,175 blood donations over the past six years. The goal is to beat the average of 200 this year.
Red Cross Month is the perfect time for first timers to get involved and donate blood. Giving is an easy way to help a patient in need, and new donors will also get a mini physical and learn their blood type!
Eligible donors with types O, B negative or A negative blood are encouraged to make a Power Red donation at this blood drive. Power Red donors give a concentrated dose of red blood cells during a single donation, allowing them to maximize their impact. During this type of donation, red blood cells are separated from other blood components, and the plasma and platelets are safely and comfortably returned to the donor.
As thanks, all who come give in March and get a $10 Visa Prepaid Card by email. PLUS, get a chance to win a $3,000 Visa Prepaid Card to help with gas or grocery expenses! You could be one of five lucky winners. Lend an arm; we’ll lend a hand. Terms apply: rcblood.org/help.
To make an appointment for the Spring into Life blood drive 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 and use the sponsor code SIL7.
Amplify your impact – volunteer!
Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cros blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check-in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive blood donation experience. For more information about this position and other volunteer opportunities, visit redcross.org/givetime.
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 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
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 not-for-profit 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 @mnredcross.