Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (April 22, 2026) — During National Minority Health Month, the American Red Cross of Utah and Calvary Baptist Church emphasize the need for blood donors from underrepresented communities, particularly Black donors whose blood is often the best match for patients with sickle cell disease.
“Sickle cell disease is something too many families know all too well,” said Rev. Dr. Oscar T. Moses, Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church. “More blood donors from the Black community can provide the closely matched blood that patients need, making a real difference in their care.”
Sickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in the United States, disproportionately affecting people of African descent. Many patients rely on regular blood transfusions, and closely matched blood can help limit serious complications. One in three African American blood donors is a match for patients with sickle cell disease. Black donors are nearly three times more likely than donors of other racial or ethnic backgrounds to provide the blood types most needed by patients with sickle cell disease.
Free Sickle Cell Trait Screening
For a limited time, the American Red Cross is screening blood donations from self-identified multiracial and Black or African American donors for sickle cell trait. The screening helps identify compatible blood for patients with sickle cell disease more quickly. It also provides donors with valuable health information.
Sickle cell trait is inherited, and many people may not know they carry it. While sickle cell trait is not the same as sickle cell disease and cannot develop into the disease, health experts recommend people learn their trait status and discuss it with a medical provider. People with sickle cell trait are still eligible to donate blood.
“National Minority Health Month is a reminder of our ongoing work to help people living with sickle cell disease through blood donation and awareness,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Greater Salt Lake Chapter. “With support from community leaders, we can make a difference for patients with sickle cell disease by helping improve access to the closely matched blood they often need.”
How to Donate
Blood 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). Those who come to give April 13-30 will receive a $15 e-gift card. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Hope.
Why National Minority Health Month Matters
Observed every April, National Minority Health Month draws attention to the health disparities that continue to affect racial and ethnic minority communities. National Minority Health Month awareness efforts encourage action through health education, early detection and better access to care, while addressing the need for improved health outcomes in historically underserved communities.
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.
