Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Nov. 10, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah is calling on the community to honor the sacrifices of U.S. military veterans this Veterans Day by donating blood. With donation centers in Salt Lake City, Layton and Lehi open on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, Utahns have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference while paying tribute to those who have served.
“Veterans Day is a time to honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who have defended our nation,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region and a U.S. Navy veteran. “By donating blood, you can show your gratitude and help save lives in our community.”
Veterans Day Donation Hours and Locations
Utah residents are encouraged to visit the following donation centers on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025:
Donating blood is simple and impactful. Donors can 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.
Thank-You Gifts for Donors
As a token of appreciation, all who donate blood or platelets between Oct. 20 and Nov. 16, 2025, will be entered into the Haunted Harvest Sweepstakes for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. Donors will also receive a $20 e-gift card for their lifesaving contribution. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Harvest.
Urgent Need for Type O and B Negative Blood
While all blood types are needed, the Red Cross is urging those with Type O and Type B negative blood to donate. Type O positive is the most transfused blood type, compatible with 85% of patients. Type O negative is the universal blood type and often used in emergencies. Type B negative is rare, found in less than 2% of the population. Patients with B negative blood can only receive transfusions from B negative or O negative donors.
About Veterans Day
First observed as Armistice Day on Nov. 11, 1919, to mark the end of World War I, Veterans Day became a federal holiday in 1954. It is celebrated annually on Nov. 11 to honor all U.S. military veterans for their service, sacrifice and dedication to protecting our nation.
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.
