Prevent a winter blood shortage: Give blood or platelets now

(File Photo of the American Red Cross Logo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) The American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania is now urging people in Pennsylvania to make an appointment to give blood or platelets this month because they are on a shortage of blood this winter.  Donors that have types O, A negative and B negative blood are especially needed and those who give between January 1st-25th, 2026 will be entered automatically for a chance to win a trip to Super Bowl LX (60) and an exciting experience for the event in Santa Clara, California this year. More information about this giveaway can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl by clicking here.

According to a release from the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania, here is more information about how you can make an appointment to donate blood or platelets:

How to donate blood

  • Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, 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 or use the Blood Donor App.