Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Dec. 30, 2024) — This New Year’s, start a family tradition that inspires and educates – donate blood and show the next generation the profound impact of giving. The American Red Cross of Utah is opening its donation centers in Salt Lake City, Lehi and Layton on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, inviting families to celebrate the holiday by saving lives and fostering values of compassion and service.
“New Year’s provides a unique opportunity for parents to involve their children in acts of generosity,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter. “When kids see their parents giving blood, they witness kindness in action. By the time they turn 16, they’ll not only understand the importance of donation, but they’ll also feel empowered to contribute themselves.”
Children who witness a parent’s kindness at the donation center learn how small sacrifices can make a big difference. Families are encouraged to make blood donation a meaningful part of their New Year traditions while helping meet a critical need in the community. In Utah, teenagers aged 16 or 17, weighing at least 110 pounds and in good health, can donate with signed parental consent.
Donation Hours and Locations
Utah residents are invited to visit the following donation centers during special holiday hours:
New Year’s Eve - Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024
New Year’s Day - Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025
Blood Donations During the Holidays Are Critical
The holiday season often brings a drop in blood donations due to busy schedules, travel and seasonal illnesses. This timing, however, does not lessen the need for blood, which remains constant for surgeries, medical emergencies, and treatments for chronic illnesses. “Blood donation is an extraordinary act of kindness that can provide hope and healing to those in need,” Donner said. “The holidays are a particularly meaningful time to give, as every donation supports patients and strengthens our community in profound ways.”
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.
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.