Celebrate World Red Cross Day by giving blood

The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood this May in honor of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on May 8 – the birthday of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement founder, Henry Dunant.

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day recognizes the local and global impact of the Red Cross mission. For more than 130 years, the American Red Cross has been helping people, including those in need of blood transfusions, in communities across the U.S.. It is the only blood services organization that also provides disaster relief, services for active and veteran military personnel and their families, and health and safety training.

Last year, about 3.1 million volunteer blood donors rolled up a sleeve to help the Red Cross meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals nationwide. Donors of all blood types – especially those with types O negative, A negative and B negative – are needed to help ensure blood is available for patients this spring.

To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Those who are unable to give blood can support blood donations and invite others to make a lifesaving donation by creating a SleevesUp virtual blood drive at redcrossblood.org/SleevesUp.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities

How to donate blood: Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 (16 with parental consent in some states), 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.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.