NEW JERSEY — The American Red Cross is urging residents to donate blood or platelets this spring as seasonal travel and changing routines may lead to declines in the blood supply.
Officials said increased outdoor activities and vacations can interrupt regular donation patterns, potentially causing shortages for hospitals and transfusion centers.
The Red Cross is encouraging donors of all blood types, including first-time donors, to schedule appointments in the coming weeks to help maintain a stable supply.
Those who donate through April 30 will receive a $15 electronic gift card to a merchant of their choice. Donors who give between May 1 and May 17 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email, the organization said.
Appointments can be scheduled by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
Eligible donors generally must be in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old in most states, or 16 with parental consent where permitted. Identification is required at check-in.
The Red Cross also encourages donors to use its RapidPass system to complete pre-donation health questions online before arriving at a blood drive.
Officials said maintaining a steady blood supply is critical to ensuring patients receive lifesaving care when needed.
