Donors needed to replenish critically strained blood supply after winter storms cancel drives nationwide.
As the 2025 Utah Legislative Session begins, lawmakers are set to tackle key issues like tax reform and higher education. Amidst these discussions, Rep. Ryan Wilcox is inviting his colleagues and the public to participate in a lifesaving cause: the first annual Utah State Legislative Blood Drive. This event will take place on Tuesday, Jan. 21, at the House Building, 350 State St., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Rep. Wilcox, a regular blood donor every eight weeks, sees this as an opportunity to encourage lawmakers, their families and the public attending the session to join him in making a lifesaving difference.
“A few years ago, I committed to donating blood every eight weeks. It’s the only New Year’s resolution I’ve ever kept,” said Rep. Wilcox (R-Ogden). “Regardless of what’s happening globally, I can always do this. I know that giving blood will make a significant difference to someone in need.”
Make Your Appointment for Utah State Legislative Blood Drive
Donors are encouraged to schedule an appointment for the blood drive on the first day of the legislative session by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor code UTLEG to book an appointment for Tuesday’s blood drive.
The nation is currently facing a critical strain on its blood supply. Severe winter storms across parts of the country in the first two weeks of the year led to the cancellation of over 400 Red Cross blood drives, leaving more than 10,000 donations uncollected. In response, the Red Cross of Utah is calling on local residents to donate blood in the coming days to help ensure that patients in Utah and across the country have access to lifesaving blood supplies.
“Rep. Wilcox is setting an example for all of us by donating blood regularly,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter. “Donating blood is a profound act of generosity that can save lives. Your donation could be the lifeline a patient and their family desperately need.”
Super Bowl Sweepstakes Ends Jan. 26
There’s still time to give blood and get entered into the American Red Cross Super Bowl LIX Sweepstakes. Those who donate blood or platelets between Jan. 1-26, 2025, will automatically be entered for a chance to win an unforgettable Super Bowl LIX package in New Orleans. The prize includes pre-game event access, tickets to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare, three-night hotel accommodations (Feb. 7-10, 2025), and a $1,000 gift card for expenses. For detailed terms and eligibility, visit RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl.
Host a blood drive
The Red Cross of Utah invites businesses, churches, schools and community groups to host blood drives. Teaming up with the Red Cross to organize and host a blood drive provides an opportunity to give back to your community. The Red Cross offers planning assistance and recruitment tools to help ensure your drive attracts donors. On the day of the drive, the Red Cross supplies equipment, materials and trained staff. Learn more at redcrossblood.org/host-a-drive.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
