Donate by Dec. 8 to receive exclusive FRIENDS + Red Cross socks and help offset holiday blood donation decline
Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, more than 1 million units of blood could be transfused to patients across the United States. The American Red Cross of Utah is calling on community members to step up and donate during this critical time to ensure patients receive the care they need without delays.
The busy holiday season often leads to a decline in blood donations, as packed schedules, travel and seasonal illnesses sideline many regular donors. Despite this, the demand for blood remains constant. Hospitals, emergency rooms and clinics rely on a steady blood supply to treat accident and trauma victims, cancer patients, those undergoing surgeries, and people living with chronic conditions.
“The need for blood is constant, but the opportunity to give is something you can control,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Your donation can provide hope and healing to patients and their families during this season of giving.”
Donate During the Holidays
The holidays bring a unique challenge as blood demand coincides with lower donations due to vacations, school breaks and winter illnesses. Severe weather in some areas can also disrupt blood drives, further impacting supply. To help, donors can schedule an appointment using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
The American Red Cross provides 40% of the nation’s blood supply, supporting over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers. Locally, nearly 45 hospitals in Utah rely on Red Cross donations to meet patient needs. Every day, the American Red Cross must collect about 12,500 blood donations and 3,000 platelet donations to serve those in need.
While all blood types are needed, there is a particularly high demand for type O and platelet donors. Type O positive is the most transfused blood type, while type O negative is a universal blood type often used in emergencies. Platelets, vital for clotting, are especially critical for cancer patients undergoing treatments.
FRIENDS + Red Cross Socks Giveaway (Ending Soon)
Through Dec. 8, blood or platelet donors will receive two exclusive pairs of FRIENDS + Red Cross socks, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the iconic TV series. This limited-edition gift is made possible through a partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products. These socks are only available to donors as a thank-you for their lifesaving contributions—while supplies last! Learn more at RedCrossBlood.org/Friends.
Blood donors who give Dec. 9-15, will receive a $15 e-gift card as a token of appreciation. Those who donate between Dec. 16 and Jan. 3, 2025, will be rewarded with an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. For details on both offers, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Gifts.
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.
