American Red Cross Urges Blood Donations Amid Critical Shortage

As September unfolds, the American Red Cross is issuing an urgent call for blood and platelet donations to address a continuing shortage that began over the summer. With patient care at stake, donors of all blood types are needed to replenish supplies, but those with Type O blood and individuals who can give platelets are particularly in demand.

This critical need comes during National Preparedness Month, a time when the Red Cross emphasizes the importance of a robust blood supply to ensure hospitals are prepared for any emergencies. A steady stream of blood donations is crucial not only for daily patient care but also in the event of unexpected disasters or crises.

To encourage donations, the Red Cross is offering incentives for those who come to give blood during September. Donors who schedule appointments and give between September 1-15, 2024, will receive an exclusive Red Cross raglan T-shirt, while supplies last. From September 16-30, 2024, donors will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice as a thank you. For more details on these promotions, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Fall.

How to Donate Blood

Donating blood is simple and can be done by downloading the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on an Alexa Echo device.

Blood donors are required to present a donor card, driver’s license, or two forms of identification during check-in. Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent in certain states), weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in general good health. High school students and younger donors must meet additional height and weight requirements.

To save time, donors can use the RapidPass® tool to complete pre-donation reading and health history questionnaires online before arriving at a blood drive. More information can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or via the Blood Donor App.

Amplify Your Impact by Volunteering

The Red Cross is also calling on those interested in further supporting their lifesaving mission to consider volunteering as a blood donor ambassador or transportation specialist. Ambassadors greet, check in, and thank donors, while transportation specialists ensure that donated blood reaches hospitals promptly. Both roles play a vital part in maintaining a positive and efficient donation experience.

For more information on how to volunteer, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.

By donating blood or volunteering, individuals can make a meaningful impact, helping the Red Cross continue to provide critical services to patients and communities across the country.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Sept. 9-30

CHAMPAIGN COUNTY
9/13/2024: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., University of Illinois Illini Union, 1401 West Green Street
9/18/2024: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., University of Illinois Illini Union, 1401 West Green Street
9/26/2024: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., University of Illinois Illini Union, 1401 West Green Street
9/30/2024: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Illini Union, 1401 W Green St

FULTON COUNTY9/11/2024: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m., Church of the Nazarene, 13192 N US 24 Hwy
9/20/2024: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., Wesley United Methodist Church, 120 N Avenue A

IROQUOIS COUNTY9/9/2024: 12:30 p.m. – 6 p.m., Sheldon Community Center, 140 S 4th St
9/13/2024: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., American Legion Post 23, South 4th St.
9/27/2024: 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., The Arc of Iroquois County, 700 E Elm Street

LIVINGSTON COUNTY9/10/2024: 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 114 W Mazon Ave
9/25/2024: 11:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 200 E. Maple Street
9/25/2024: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Pontiac Township Senior Community Center, 601 N Ladd Street

PEORIA COUNTY
Peoria Red Cross Blood and Platelet Donation Center    
405 West John H Gwynn Jr Avenue, Peoria, IL 61605    
Sun 7AM – 3PM    
Mon 11AM – 7PM    
Tue 11AM – 7PM    
Wed 11AM – 7PM    
Thu Closed    
Fri 7AM – 3PM  
Sat 7AM – 3PM