NEW JERSEY — The American Red Cross is encouraging New Jersey residents to schedule blood and platelet donation appointments this month as seasonal schedule changes begin to affect donations.
The organization said the end of the school year, vacations and early summer activities can disrupt regular donation schedules and lead to fewer available appointments.
“One hour can make a lifetime impact,” the Red Cross said in a statement announcing the campaign.
The Red Cross is asking donors of all blood types, as well as platelet donors, to make appointments now to help maintain a stable blood supply for patients.
“Just one hour of time could help patients celebrate more life with loved ones in the weeks ahead,” the organization said.
As part of the campaign, donors who give blood or platelets between May 1 and May 17 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email through a partnership with Amazon, according to the Red Cross.
Those who donate between May 18 and May 31 will receive an oversized Red Cross beach towel while supplies last.
Appointments can be scheduled by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, using the Red Cross Blood Donor App or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
The organization said individuals who are 17 years old in most states, or 16 with parental consent where allowed by law, may be eligible to donate if they meet health and weight requirements.
The Red Cross also encouraged donors to use RapidPass to complete pre-donation reading and health history questions online before arriving at a blood drive.
