Red Cross is offering a reward for blood donations

SALT LAKE CITY — Red Cross is asking people to give blood or platelets now so hospitals have enough blood through the end of the year.

In the spirit of the holiday season American Red Cross is also offering a reward to those who donate.

According to a press release, several factors disrupt the availability of blood during the holiday season, including travel, weather, and illness or lack of healthy donors.

Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Utah Greater Salt Lake Chapter, said they often see a decline in donations during the holiday season, which is significant as Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood supply.

The only way to obtain transfusable blood, he said, for as long as medicine has been around, is through donations and the generosity of others.

“Any of us – our friends, family, neighbors – could be in an accident or become ill some day and need blood. Yet, in the U.S., where 62% of the population is eligible to give, only 3% does.”

He said blood is needed approximately every two seconds in the United States.

Donors who donate through Dec. 15 will receive a $10 Amazon gift card. Then, through Jan. 2, donors will receive a long-sleeve Red Cross t-shirt, while supplies last.

We rely on volunteers to support our mission year-round, not just seasonally. If you’ve been looking for an opportunity to give back, we have several urgently needed volunteer positions open. Learn more about these roles and others here: https://t.co/EUI4TXw50q. #GiveWithMeaning pic.twitter.com/aiWrcUHRE4

— American Red Cross of Utah (@RedCrossUtah) December 9, 2022

While Type O is needed most, Red Cross says blood donors of all types are needed.

Donors can schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App or visiting the website. There is even a Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device, which can make appointments for donors.

Those who cannot donate can help by volunteering.