NEW JERSEY — As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the American Red Cross is urging donors to schedule blood and platelet donations to help maintain a steady supply during a critical time.
With millions expected to travel and participate in outdoor activities such as boating, camping and water sports, the risk of accidents increases, making access to blood products vital.
May is Trauma Awareness Month, and blood donations remain a priority despite busy holiday schedules. The Red Cross especially emphasizes the need for Type O blood and platelet donors, essential for treating accident victims and others requiring transfusions.
Donors who give blood by May 31 will receive an exclusive Red Cross solar lantern while supplies last and be entered to win a U.S. trip for two. Those who donate in June will receive a $15 Amazon gift card by email and be entered to win one of two $7,000 gift cards.
Appointments can be made by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or using Alexa devices. Donors must be in good health, generally at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent where allowed), and weigh at least 110 pounds.
The Red Cross also recommends using RapidPass® to complete pre-donation paperwork online to save time at the donation site.
For more information and to schedule appointments, visit RedCrossBlood.org.
