Approximately every two seconds someone in America needs blood – about 44,000 pints a day. While the need for blood never goes away, blood and platelet donors do during the summer months. As summer calendars fill with family vacations and fun summer activities, the American Red Cross needs your help.

This summer the Red Cross is conducting the Live Life. Give Life. summer giveaway to raise awareness about the need for summer blood donors. The Red Cross is asking donors to give the gift of life – and support someone’s life journey by giving blood or platelets with the American Red Cross.

And, when you give a little, they may win the chance to live a little! This summer, donors could win prize certificates redeemable at GiftCertificates.com when they donate blood.

How to Donate Blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org 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 permission 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 more than 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 join our blog.

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