AUSTIN, Texas  — The American Red Cross announced its LifeBlood Fund, a five-year, $300 million national effort to strengthen and modernize the nation’s blood supply — ensuring that every patient in the United States has access to lifesaving blood when and where it is needed.

Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood, and the Red Cross provides nearly 40% of the nation’s supply. However, mounting pressures — including extreme weather disruptions to blood drives and long-term demographic shifts — are widening the gap between supply and demand.

The Red Cross projects that these challenges could be ongoing as the demand for blood is expected to increase 12% by 2030. At the same time, the donor base has declined by 40% over the past 20 years, stretching the current blood supply beyond sustainable limits. This campaign aims to address these urgent challenges, including rising hospital demand, fewer donors, increasing costs and aging infrastructure. Through expanded donor engagement, advanced technology and modernized facilities, the initiative will strengthen the Red Cross capacity to collect and deliver lifesaving blood.

To help guide this effort, dedicated Red Cross philanthropists Kevin and Patricia Terrazas will serve on the campaign committee alongside a distinguished group of volunteers.

• Erica Dayton, The Golisano Foundation
• Tad Hutcheson, Delta Air Lines
• Elissa Gifford
• Brenda L. Johnson
• Barb Malott Kizziah and Keith Kizziah
• Teresa Nacarato
• Teresa and Byron Pollitt, campaign co-chairs

“Every blood donor gives a remarkable gift. Helping that gift save lives takes more than donated blood alone. It requires a strong, reliable blood system built through investment, innovation, and a shared commitment to patients,” said Kevin and Patricia Terrazas. “That's why we're proud to support the Red Cross and serve on the national committee for the LifeBlood Fund.”

Kevin Terrazas is co-founder of Arambula Terrazas PLLC and a longtime American Red Cross leader, serving on the National Philanthropic Board and previously chairing the Central Texas Chapter. A West Point and Harvard Law School graduate, he is a recipient of the Red Cross Lady Bird Johnson Humanitarian Award.

Patricia Terrazas leads Strategic Alliances for the Americas at HID Global and is a technology executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Southern Methodist University and enjoys spending time with her family, as well as serving her church and community.

“Kevin and Patricia Terrazas exemplify the best of volunteer leadership,” said Javier Valdez, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Central & South Texas Region. “Their strategic guidance is helping lay the foundation for a stronger national blood supply and ensuring patients continue to receive the lifesaving care they need.”

The American Red Cross invites individuals, foundations and organizations to join this effort to strengthen the nation’s blood system and ensure that every patient receives the care they depend on. Learn more about the LifeBlood Fund and schedule an appointment to give blood today.

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.