Red Cross urges blood donations; donors to receive Life is Good T-shirt through April 12
NEW JERSEY — The American Red Cross is urging residents to donate blood or platelets as spring schedules and travel plans can strain the nation’s blood supply.
To encourage participation, the Red Cross has partnered with lifestyle brand Life is Good to offer a promotional T-shirt to donors who give blood or platelets between March 30 and April 12, while supplies last.
Officials said maintaining a steady blood supply is critical as seasonal activities can reduce donor availability.
“Life is Good has always been about more than a T-shirt; it’s a reminder that the world is full of good worth fighting for, and that spreading optimism starts with the everyday choices we make,” says Linne Kimball, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships for Life is Good. “For us, partnering with the Red Cross was a natural fit, because giving blood is proof that one person and one simple act can make a real difference. We hope this collaboration inspires donors old and new to turn positivity into purpose ─ because doing good doesn’t have to be complicated, sometimes all it takes is rolling up a sleeve.”
The Red Cross emphasized that donors of all blood types are needed to help meet patient demand.
“It’s critical that donors make and keep appointments in the weeks to come to help the blood supply stand up to any seasonal disruptions or challenges,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of donor services for the Red Cross. “The Red Cross is grateful to Life is Good for joining us in an important mission ─ sparking optimism and kindness through blood donation.”
Appointments can be scheduled by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, using the Red Cross Blood Donor App or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
Eligible donors generally must be at least 17 years old in most states (or 16 with parental consent where permitted), weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Identification is required at check-in.
Officials also encouraged donors to use the RapidPass system to complete pre-donation health history questions online before arriving at a donation site.
