Give Back By Donating Blood and Platelets This Holiday

As millions of Americans make their final gift purchases this holiday season, the American Red Cross reminds eligible donors to give the most meaningful gift of all – life – by donating blood or platelets. Blood donations often decline during the holidays when busy schedules, inclement weather and seasonal illnesses can make it more difficult for donors to make and keep donation appointments, but the need for blood doesn’t get a break for the holiday season.

Blood donors of all types, particularly AB, O, A negative and B negative, and platelet donors are encouraged to make an appointment to donate and help ensure hospitals have the blood they need for patients this winter. As a special thank you for taking the time to donate, those who come out to give Dec. 23 through Jan. 3 will receive a long-sleeve Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.

Donation appointments can be made by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 800.RED.CROSS (800.733.2767). The Red Cross urges donors who have made a commitment to donate during the holiday period to keep their appointments. Each appointment kept, and each donation given, offers hope to a patient in need.