Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Dec. 23, 2024) — This Christmas morning, the American Red Cross of Utah invites the community to give a gift that can make a life-changing difference. Red Cross blood donation centers in Salt Lake City, Layton and Lehi will be open to collect platelet donations, which are essential for many lifesaving treatments.
Platelets are small, colorless cell fragments in the blood that are crucial for clotting and preventing bleeding. They play a vital role in treating various health conditions, including cancer, chronic diseases, and traumatic injuries. Due to their short shelf life of just five days, there is a constant need for fresh platelet donations.
“During the holiday season, we have the opportunity to give gifts that truly matter. By donating platelets, you’re offering the gift of life and hope to patients facing critical health challenges,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “This simple act of generosity could be the miracle a family is praying for this Christmas. Your donation can transform uncertainty into gratitude and despair into hope.”
The Red Cross donation centers listed below will be open on Christmas Day, Wednesday, Dec. 25, from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Please note that the last platelet donations will begin at 10:30 a.m.
Make a Difference This Holiday Season
Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Special rewards are available for those who give blood during this time. Donors between Dec. 16 and Jan. 3, 2025, will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. Additionally, donors contributing between Jan. 1 and Jan. 26, 2025, will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LIX in New Orleans. For more details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Gifts and RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl.
What to Expect When Donating Platelets
Platelet donation, known as apheresis, differs slightly from whole blood donation. During the process, blood is drawn and passed through a machine that separates the platelets, then returns plasma, red cells and white cells back to the donor. While the procedure takes about two hours, skilled Red Cross phlebotomists are there every step of the way to ensure donors’ comfort and support.
“Blood and platelet donations are the backbone of emergency care, routine surgeries, and lifesaving treatments,” Ruster said. “Even on Christmas morning, our dedicated team of nurses, phlebotomists and volunteers will be hard at work to ensure no patient in need is overlooked. Their unwavering dedication during the holidays reflects the spirit of compassion and urgency that makes these lifesaving efforts possible.”
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.
