The American Red Cross is urging donors to schedule an appointment now to give blood or platelets, emphasizing that the need for donations remains constant even as fall routines and potential weather disruptions threaten to slow collections.
While emergencies often draw attention, the Red Cross noted that hospitals depend on a steady and reliable blood supply every day for patients undergoing surgeries, cancer treatments, and trauma care. The organization warned that blood donations often decline in October as people settle into busy schedules and prepare for upcoming school breaks.
“The need for blood is constant, and every donation helps ensure that hospitals can provide lifesaving care,” the organization said in a statement. “Even one canceled blood drive or weather-related disruption can make a serious impact.”
The Red Cross also cautioned that the threat of hurricanes during the fall season poses risks to blood collection efforts, since blood has a short shelf life and can only be supplied by volunteer donors.
Donors can make an appointment to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
As an incentive, all who give Sept. 22 through Oct. 19 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Those who donate between Oct. 20 and Nov. 16 will receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice and be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards.
Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in generally good health. High school donors 18 and under must also meet height and weight requirements.
To save time at their next donation, donors can use RapidPass® to complete pre-donation reading and health history online on the day of their appointment. Instructions are available at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or through the Blood Donor App.
For more information, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.
