Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Oct. 30, 2024) — While haunted houses can be scary, giving blood isn’t. This Halloween don’t be a ‘fraidy cat, come donate blood at the American Red Cross of Utah’s blood donation centers in Salt Lake City, Lehi and Layton, which will open early leaving the afternoon to enjoy trick-or-treating.
“Many folks find the idea of donating blood a bit eerie,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter. “But in reality, it’s a quick and painless process that leaves you feeling great about making a difference. This Halloween, why not turn conquering your fears into a thrilling experience by giving blood? It’s the perfect time to prove that blood donation isn’t as spooky as it might seem.”
Don’t let trypanophobia – an intense fear of needles affecting an estimated 25% of adults – stop you this Halloween. Take a few minutes to face your fears and help ensure that lifesaving blood is available in Utah hospitals when patients need it.
Donation centers will be open on Thursday, Oct. 31, at the following times and locations:
Schedule your blood donation today
Halloween is the last day to donate blood and be entered into the American Red Cross Haunted Harvest Sweepstakes for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. All who donate between Oct. 1-31 will also receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. For full details, RedCrossBlood.org/Treat.
Donors can easily schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
As a leading provider of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross contributes about 40% of all blood collected, serving over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide. To meet ongoing patient needs, the Red Cross must collect around 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations daily. Nearly 45 hospitals in Utah depend on the Red Cross for their blood supply.
Halloween History
The tradition of Halloween originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III designated Nov. 1 as a day to honor all saints, integrating some Samhain traditions into All Saints Day. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, eventually evolving into Halloween. Over time, Halloween transformed into a day filled with activities such as trick-or-treating, carving jack-o'-lanterns, attending festive gatherings, wearing costumes, and enjoying sweet treats.
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.