Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (June 25, 2023) — As blood donations lag this summer season, the American Red Cross of Utah is calling on the generosity of the local community to step forward and make life-saving blood donations. Every year, the summer months pose a challenge for maintaining an adequate blood supply due to decreased donation rates, making it crucial for new and returning donors to come forward.
With the required 56 days having passed since the popular Snoopy shirt campaign in April, first-time donors who came out for the massively popular T-shirt can once again contribute to this life-saving cause. The Red Cross of Utah saw a remarkable uptick in donations and first-time donors during the spring Snoopy shirt campaign. Those donors are now eligible to give again.
“With the required 56-day waiting period to donate blood again now behind them, these individuals have the opportunity to make a significant impact once again,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Utah Greater Salt Lake Chapter. “The Snoopy shirt campaign not only highlighted the importance of blood donation but also demonstrated the enthusiasm and compassion of the community. We encourage these first-time donors, along with regular donors, to schedule appointments and help meet the ongoing need for blood.”
Concerning shortfall in donations
The Red Cross nationwide collected about 26,000 fewer blood donations than were needed in May to meet the demand of patients. Blood donation is a vital component of emergency medical care, routine surgeries and treatments for patients of all ages. During the summer, blood donations often decrease due to vacations, travel and other seasonal activities. This decline in donations can strain the blood supply and pose potential challenges for patients in need. “By giving blood, the community can ensure that hospitals and medical centers have the resources necessary to save lives and provide critical care” Lafranca said.
“The only way to obtain transfusable blood is through donations. We rely on the generosity of others to give blood so it’s available when needed,” said Dr. Walter Kelley, Medical Director for the Rocky Mountain Division of the American Red Cross. “Any of us – our friends, family, neighbors – could be in an accident or become ill some day and need a transfusion. Yet, in the U.S., where 62% of the population is eligible to give, only about 3% does.”
Ongoing need for blood and summer giveaways
The Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood, collecting about 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations every day to meet demand. “Our donors are literally the life blood for those undergoing medical procedures and treatments at about 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide,” Lafranca said.
Donors of all blood types – particularly type O, the blood group hospitals use most – are needed now to give blood or platelets to help meet demand. Schedule an appointment today by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Give blood by June 30, and receive a $10 gift card by email, and be automatically entered for a chance to win a backyard theater package, including a projector, screen and smokeless firepit. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/June. Those giving blood July 1-11 will receive an exclusive Red Cross dry bag, while supplies last. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/gifts.
About the American Red Cross
The 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 nonprofit organization depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
