Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (March 16, 2024) — The American Red Cross of Utah is making its final call as the deadline to win a $3,000 gift card approaches. Five generous blood donors will be selected for this prize. To be in the running, make sure to donate blood by Sunday, March 24.
“We’ve had an encouraging turnout of first-time donors so far, and we’re eagerly anticipating more newcomers and seasoned donors in this final week,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Utah Greater Salt Lake Chapter. “Our blood donors' generosity never fails to impress us, and we are delighted to offer them a chance at winning a $3,000 gift card.”
Despite the fact that 62% of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, only about 3% do. “Blood donation is a caring act that can significantly affect someone's life. We invite everyone to join us and make a lifesaving difference,” added Lafranca.
Schedule a donation today
The Red Cross of Utah urges residents to book a donation appointment this week to secure their chance at the giveaway. Appointments can be made using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). If immediate slots are unavailable, donors are encouraged to book future appointments to help maintain a steady blood supply.
Throughout Red Cross Month in March, the Red Cross of Utah celebrates volunteers and blood donors whose contributions are critical to providing relief and care to those in need. As a token of gratitude, all who come to donate by March 24 will receive a $10 e-gift card to a pet supply merchant of choice, plus a chance to win one of five $3,000 gift cards. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Pets for more details.
The Red Cross provides approximately 40% of the nation's blood, collecting about 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations every day to meet demand. “Our donors are literally the lifeblood for those undergoing medical procedures and treatments at about 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide,” Lafranca stated.
Host a blood drive
The Red Cross of Utah invites businesses, churches, schools and community groups to host blood drives. Teaming up with the Red Cross to organize and host a blood drive provides an opportunity to give back to the community and make a significant difference. The Red Cross offers planning assistance and recruitment tools to help ensure your drive attracts donors. On the day of the drive, the Red Cross supplies 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.