Media contact: Sarah Martin
Regional Communications Manager
sarah.martin5@redcross.org | 951-432-9625
SALT LAKE CITY (September 1, 2023) — The 20th Annual Blood Battle between USU and Weber State begins Tuesday, Sept. 5, at Utah State University. Since 2003, the donors at the two schools have given more than 19,000 units of blood combined. The two-week-long Red Cross drive held this year aims to push that number over 20,000 units of life-saving blood.
“We are constantly inspired by these students and grateful to them for such a long tradition of service through blood donation,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah and Southwest Wyoming Chapter. “20 years of friendly competition has saved countless lives and we hope the students will feel their impact and continue this legacy of blood donation long past their graduations.”
USU Drive Details
When: Tuesday, Sept. 5 – Friday, Sept. 8, 9:00am-7:00pm
Where: TSC, Sunburst Lounge
Make an appointment at redcrossblood.org using sponsor code BLEEDBLUE; walk-in donations welcome based on availability.
USU Donors and volunteers will receive a commemorative t-shirt. The student club/ and organization that sends the most members to donate can win Aggie Ice Cream and Chick-fil-A meals for their group.
USU President Elizabeth Cantwell said, “This is a critical time of year for blood donations to help replenish the supply both locally and nationwide. We are so proud of the Aggies who show up to make this drive a success every year – and even more importantly, to make a big impact in this lifesaving effort. Come on out, Aggies!”
Weber State Drive Details
When: Monday, Sept. 11 – Friday, Sept. 15, 9:00am-3:00pm
Where: SUB and Dee Event Center
Make an appointment at redcrossblood.org using sponsor code BLEEDPURPLE; walk-in donations welcome based on availability.
Weber State Donors and volunteers will receive a commemorative t-shirt.
“The Wildcats are going to take the win this year!” said Weber State President, Brad Mortensen. “Our students have shown time and time again that they are eager to roll up a sleeve to help our community. 20 years of blood donation is a tradition we hope to carry on for many, many years to come.”
Community members welcome to participate
Students aren’t the only donors welcome at these drives; we welcome all family, staff, and community members to participate. While all blood types are needed, there is currently an urgent need for type O negative, type O positive and type B negative blood donations. These blood types are in high demand and crucial for life-saving interventions. Type O blood is the most used in hospitals and B negative is one of the rarest blood types. Donors can make an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Appreciation for donors
As appreciation for their commitment to ensuring a stable blood supply, all who come to donate blood, platelets or plasma September 1-18 will receive a limited-edition Red Cross T-shirt while supplies last. Additionally, donors during the month of September will receive an email coupon for a complimentary haircut from Sport Clips. Details are available at rcblood.org/racetogive.
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.