Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (May 1, 2026) — The American Red Cross of Utah is offering a limited-edition Los Donantes T-shirt to raise awareness about the need for more Latino blood donors and a blood supply that better reflects Utah’s diverse communities.
Blood donors who give at the Salt Lake Blood Donation Center from May 1 to 17 can receive the T-shirt, while supplies last. The design, inspired by traditional Mexican lotería cards, features two blood donors and connects a familiar cultural image to the need for more donors from Latino communities.
“Los Donantes is about encouraging more people to see themselves as blood donors,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “A strong blood supply depends on donors from every community, and this effort helps us connect with more Latino donors and other underrepresented communities.”
Los Donantes Outreach
Los Donantes, which means “The Donors,” launched April 1 as an outreach effort focused on blood donation in Utah’s Latino community and the ongoing need for more donors. The effort runs through June 30, with special events at the Salt Lake Blood Donation Center on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
Los Donantes is designed to help the Red Cross connect with more Latino donors in Utah through messaging that is familiar, relevant and community-focused.
Nearly 60% of Latino people have type O-positive blood, making blood donation especially important in these communities. O-positive is the most commonly transfused blood type and is compatible with about 85% of patients.
How to Donate
Donation appointments can be made through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use the sponsor code SaltLakeCityUT to schedule an appointment at the Salt Lake Donation Center and receive a Los Donantes T-shirt.
Those who come to give May 1 through 17, 2026, will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email, thanks to our partners at Amazon. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Amazon.
Effort Comes Ahead of Summer Donation Slowdown
Blood donations often slow in late spring as the school year ends, reducing the number of high school and college blood drives that bring in donors during the school year. Warmer weather, outdoor activities, spring travel and changing routines can also pull donors away from appointments, making it more challenging to maintain full donation schedules as summer approaches.
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.
