Wrap up a blood donation for this Christmas season

As people make travel plans to celebrate with family and friends this year, the American Red Cross asks donors to set aside time to give blood or platelets for patients waiting for care over the holidays. From a record number of people expected to travel, to seasonal illnesses and the potential for hazardous winter weather, it can be difficult for the Red Cross to collect enough blood for patients during the winter months.

When donors give the gift of a blood or platelet donation in December, the Red Cross will say thank you with several opportunities. Thanks to Prime Video, those who come to give blood, platelets or AB Elite plasma through Dec. 31, will automatically be entered for a chance to win a $1,000 Amazon.com Gift Card and a 65-inch Omni QLED Series Amazon Fire TV.

Those who give blood, platelets or AB Elite plasma through Dec. 17, will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Those who give blood, platelets or AB Elite plasma from Dec. 18, 2023 to Jan. 5, 2024, will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last.

Making and keeping appointments throughout the month, can help safeguard the national blood supply into the new year.

To schedule an appointment, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 800-7332767.