(File Photo of the American Red Cross Logo)
Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News
(Pittsburgh, PA) The American Red Cross is urging people to give blood or platelets now to ensure that patients can receive care. All blood types are needed, and the Red Cross supplies hospitals across the United States with over 6.5 million blood products each year, all made possible through the generosity of volunteer donors.
Those who give between September 21st-October 18th, 2026, will get a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Those who come to give between September 21st-30th, 2026 at the Red Cross blood donation centers can mention the word “pickleball” to Red Cross staff or volunteers that are on-site, and they can get a custom Red Cross pickleball paddle and ball. However, limited quantities of this prize are available.
September is also National Preparedness Month, which is an important time to remember that disasters can happen without a proper warning. A strong blood supply can help in response to every type of disaster, whether it is home fires or natural disasters.
According to a release from the American Red Cross, here are some ways to donate blood:
How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org (click here), call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. 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.
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 (click here) or use the Blood Donor App.