The American Red Cross asks donors to schedule an appointment now to give blood to support patients counting on a consistent blood supply.
“While emergencies often grab headlines, the need for blood is constant, especially in October, as donation appointments can often drop quickly when people settle into busy fall routines and make plans around upcoming school breaks,” the Red Cross said.
Because blood has a short shelf life and can only come from volunteer blood donors, any disruptions in the ability to collect lifesaving blood can have serious consequences for those seeking medical care, according to the Red Cross.
To give blood, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-733-2767, or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
All who come to give blood, platelets or plasma by Oct. 19 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Fall.
Those who give Oct. 20-Nov. 16 will receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Harvest.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Santa Barbara are:
Wednesday, Oct. 22, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., UCSB University Center, 1 UCEN Road.
Monday, Oct. 27, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., American Red Cross, 2707 State St.
All blood types are needed. 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.
Another way to support the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at the organization’s blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check in, and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience.
For more information and to apply, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.