Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Nov. 1, 2024) — The American Red Cross Autumn Heroes Sweepstakes kicks off today, offering donors a unique opportunity to win one of two $7,000 gift cards while making a lifesaving difference by giving blood by Nov. 17. As a token of appreciation, all donors will also receive a $10 gift card.
“At this time of year, people often reflect on what they are grateful for. Patients are certainly grateful for donors who provide lifesaving blood,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Our donors’ generosity continually inspires us, and we are excited to offer them a chance to win a $7,000 gift card.”
Even though 62% of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, only about 3% do. “Donating blood is a selfless act with the power to significantly change lives. We wholeheartedly appreciate our donors, honoring them as true heroes. We encourage everyone to contribute to this life-changing mission,” Flanigan stated.
Schedule your blood donation today
Unfortunately, demand for blood during the holidays coincides with a lower availability of donors due to vacations and holiday activities, seasonal illnesses, school breaks and severe weather.
Donors can easily schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Those who donate blood, platelets or plasma from Nov. 1-17 will receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice and be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. For more details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Thanks.
The American Red Cross is a major contributor to the national blood supply, providing approximately 40% of all blood collected, and serves over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide. To meet ongoing patient needs, the Red Cross must collect around 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations daily. Nearly 20 hospitals in Southern Nevada rely on the Red Cross for their blood supply.
Host a blood drive
The Red Cross of Southern Nevada encourages businesses, churches, schools and community groups to host blood drives. Partnering with the Red Cross to organize a blood drive is a meaningful way to give back to the community and make a lasting impact. The Red Cross offers comprehensive planning assistance and recruitment tools to help attract donors. On the day of the drive, the Red Cross provides all necessary equipment, materials and trained staff. Learn more at redcrossblood.org/host-a-drive.
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 follow us on social media.