NEW JERSEY — The American Red Cross is urging people of all blood types to donate blood or platelets this fall to help maintain a reliable supply for patients across the country.
The Red Cross supplies hospitals nationwide with more than 6.5 million blood products each year, made possible through volunteer blood and platelet donors.
The organization said a strong blood supply is also an important part of emergency preparedness because disasters can happen without warning. September is National Preparedness Month, a time focused on preparing for emergencies and disasters.
Blood products may be needed in response to emergencies ranging from home fires to natural disasters, in addition to the ongoing needs of patients receiving medical care.
Those who donate blood or platelets through Oct. 18, 2026, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Fall.
In addition, those who donate from Sept. 21 through Sept. 30 at Red Cross blood donation centers and mention the word “pickleball” to Red Cross staff or volunteers on-site can receive a custom Red Cross pickleball paddle and ball while supplies last.
Information about Red Cross blood donation centers is available at RedCrossBlood.org/FindADonationCenter.
How to donate blood
Appointments can be made by downloading the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on an Alexa Echo device.
All blood types are needed to help ensure a reliable supply for patients.
Donors are required to provide a blood donor card, driver’s license or two other forms of identification at check-in.
Individuals who are 17 years old in most states, or 16 with parental consent where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
