Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (July 24, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah is encouraging Utahns to visit donation centers in Salt Lake City, Lehi and Layton this weekend to donate platelets and help support patients in need. Platelet donors this month will receive an exclusive Red Cross cinched backpack as a token of appreciation, while also making a lifesaving difference for patients in critical need.
Platelets are small, colorless cell fragments in the blood that are essential for clotting and preventing bleeding. They play a vital role in treating patients with cancer, chronic illnesses and traumatic injuries. Due to their short shelf life of just five days, there is a constant and urgent need for fresh platelet donations.
“About half of all platelet donations go to support patients fighting cancer,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Donating platelets this week can provide lifesaving care to cancer patients in Utah. Your donation has the power to bring hope and healing to families during their most challenging moments.”
Utah Donation Centers Open Weekends
Utahns can donate platelets at donation centers in Salt Lake City, Lehi and Layton, with convenient weekend hours to make giving easier.
Salt Lake Donation Center
6616 South 900 East
Saturday & Sunday: 6:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Lehi Donation Center
310 North 850 East
Saturday & Sunday: 6:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Layton Donation Center
852 W. Hill Field Rd.
Saturday & Sunday: 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by 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 donation centers.
What to Expect When Donating Platelets
Platelet donation, known as apheresis, differs slightly from whole blood donation. During the process, blood is drawn and passed through a machine that separates the platelets, then returns plasma, red cells and white cells back to the donor. While the procedure takes about two hours, skilled Red Cross phlebotomists are there every step of the way to ensure donors’ comfort and support. Platelets may be donated every seven days, up to 24 times a year.
Rewarding Platelet Donors
To thank platelet donors who give by July 31, the American Red Cross is offering an exclusive Red Cross cinched backpack, while supplies last. First-time platelet donors who give by Aug. 30 will also receive a $30 Amazon gift card by email. For more details, visit redcross.org/giveplatelets.
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.
