Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (June 4, 2026) — Scheduled platelet donation appointments have dropped sharply in recent weeks, raising concern about platelet availability for patients who rely on them during cancer treatment, transplants, surgeries and other serious medical care. The American Red Cross of Utah is calling on the community to donate platelets now and throughout the summer.
Summer can make platelet donation appointments harder to fill as school breaks, vacations and changing routines affect donor schedules. Platelet donors who give by June 14 can receive an exclusive Red Cross Platelet Donor deck of cards in a commemorative tin case, while supplies last.
“Platelet donors make a special commitment each time they give,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “With appointments down heading into summer, their donations are especially important. This exclusive donor gift is a small way to thank those who help keep platelets available for patients.”
Platelets are blood cells that help control bleeding by forming clots. They are often used to support patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplants, major surgeries and treatment for traumatic injuries. Because platelets must be used within five days, ongoing donations are essential for patients who rely on them.
What to Expect When Donating Platelets
Platelet donation, also called apheresis, collects platelets from the blood and returns the remaining components, including plasma, red cells and white cells, to the donor. The process usually takes about two hours. During that time, donors can relax, watch a movie or listen to music.
Eligible donors can give platelets every seven days, up to 24 times a year. People who recently donated blood may be able to donate platelets after seven days.
Utah Donation Centers Open for Platelet Donors
Platelet donation appointments are available at Red Cross Blood Donation Centers in Salt Lake City, Lehi and Layton. Donors can view available times and schedule through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor codes SaltLakeCityUT, LaytonUT or LehiUT to make an appointment at one of the Utah donation centers.
Salt Lake Donation Center
6616 S 900 E
Lehi Donation Center
310 N 850 E
Layton Donation Center
852 W. Hill Field Rd.
June Donor Offers
Platelet donors who give June 1-14, 2026, can receive the exclusive Red Cross Platelet Donor deck of cards in a commemorative tin case, while supplies last. For more details, visit redcrossblood.org/giveplatelets.
Those who come to give blood June 1-28, 2026, will also receive a $15 e-gift card and be entered for a chance to win one of two $7,500 gift cards. Additional details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/June.
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.
