Community Effort to Protect the Blood Supply by Donating this Fall

ALEXANDRIA, VA – With some forethought, we as a community can get ahead of any blood shortages as we head into the winter season. In a press release issued today, the American Red Cross urged blood donors of all types and those who have never given before to book a time to give blood or platelets now in order to keep the blood supply from dropping ahead of the holidays. 

People of all blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients, especially platelet donors and those with type O blood. These blood products are critical to keeping hospitals ready to help patients depending on transfusions in the weeks ahead. 

e-Gratitude —As a thank-you for taking the time to give this fall, all who come to give Nov.1-22 will receive a $10 e-gift card by email to a merchant of choice. Details are available at rcblood.org/perks. 

Community members can locate upcoming blood donation opportunities by searching by zip code and can book a slot by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).    

People can also enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Get in the Fast Lane with RapidPass — Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

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