Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Oct. 19, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah is encouraging Utahns to donate blood this fall and take part in the Haunted Harvest Sweepstakes. From Monday, Oct. 20, through Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025, anyone who donates blood or platelets will be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. All donors will also receive a $10 e-gift card as a token of appreciation.
“With busy fall schedules and school breaks, we often see a drop in blood donations during this time of year,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter. “We’re calling on both seasoned and first-time donors to make time to give. Your donation could save lives, and as a token of our appreciation, you’ll have a chance to win a $5,000 gift card.”
Why Blood Donations Are Critical This Fall
As the holiday season approaches, blood donations often decline as people focus on travel, celebrations and other seasonal activities. Unfortunately, this drop in donations coincides with an increased need for blood, as motor vehicle accidents and other emergencies tend to rise during the holidays.
The American Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood, playing a vital role in ensuring hospitals have the resources they need. In Utah, nearly 45 hospitals rely on the Red Cross to provide blood for accident victims, cancer patients, mothers experiencing complications during childbirth and others facing life-threatening medical emergencies.
How to Donate and Enter the Sweepstakes
Donating blood is simple and impactful. To schedule an appointment, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcross.org/GiveBlood or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
All who donate blood or platelets between Oct. 20 and Nov. 16, 2025, will automatically be entered into the Haunted Harvest Sweepstakes for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Harvest. In addition to the sweepstakes entry, all donors will receive a $10 e-gift card as a thank-you for their lifesaving contribution.
Urgent Need for Type O and B Negative Blood
While all blood types are needed, the Red Cross is especially urging those with Type O and Type B negative blood to donate. Type O positive is the most transfused blood type, compatible with 85% of patients. Type O negative is the universal blood type, often used in emergencies when there’s no time to determine a patient’s blood type. Type B negative is rare, found in less than 2% of the population. Patients with B negative blood can only receive transfusions from B negative or O negative donors.
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.
