Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Oct. 21, 2023) — Starting today, those who roll up their sleeves to give blood will not only be supporting a critical cause, but for the next three weeks, they also have the opportunity to enjoy a meal courtesy of the American Red Cross and potentially win a hefty $5,000 gift card.
From Oct. 21 through Nov. 9, 2023, blood, platelet or plasma donors to the Red Cross will receive a $10 restaurant e-gift card and automatically entered for a chance to win a $5,000 Visa Prepaid Card. There will be three lucky winners, one each week. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Lunch for terms and conditions.
“I am deeply inspired daily by the selfless dedication of our blood donors, many of whom have been giving generously for years without expecting anything in return,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Southern Nevada Chapter. “This giveaway provides a chance to win a $5,000 gift card as a token of our appreciation.”
Help alleviate a national shortfall in donations
Donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). The Red Cross plays a crucial role in maintaining the country's blood supply, contributing around 40% of all collected blood. To meet patient needs at over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers, the Red Cross must typically collect 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations daily.
While all blood types are crucial, there is a critical need for type O donors. Type O positive is the most frequently transfused blood type, while O negative serves as the universal donor, often used in emergencies when the patient's blood type cannot be quickly determined.
Donate now. Help save lives
The Red Cross is currently facing a severe blood donor shortfall, due to a combination of reduced summer turnout and numerous blood drive cancellations caused by natural disasters. The demand for blood in hospitals is exceeding the rate of donations, leading to a 25% decrease in the Red Cross's national blood supply. This strain on blood supplies can jeopardize patient care.
Trauma patients, transplant recipients and those undergoing cancer treatment rely on blood donors to keep lifesaving blood available. “Transfusable blood can only be obtained through donations,” said Dr. Walter Kelley, Medical Director for the Rocky Mountain Division of the American Red Cross. “Despite 62% of the population being eligible to donate, only about 3% does so. We depend on the generosity of donors to ensure blood is available when needed.”
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.
