The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. 

Every June 14, the American Red Cross joins blood collection organizations around the world to celebrate World Blood Donor Day, which recognizes the importance of a safe and stable blood supply and the donors who make it possible. 

Nearly 2.5 million people volunteer to give lifesaving blood and platelets every year with the red cross. Eligible donors are encouraged to be part of something big by making an appointment to give blood or platelets this month. 

Blood donations decline in late spring and early summer, especially during holiday weeks, like Memorial Day and Independence day, but the need for blood and platelet transfusions don’t take a summer break. 

Generous blood and platelet donors are critically important in ensuring lifesaving lifesaving care is available the moment patients need it. 

To schedule an appointment to donate,download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

As a thank you for helping, in honor of the new Baz Luhrmann film, “Elvis,” all who come to give in the month of June will be automatically entered for a chance to win a VIP trip Graceland for two, including a round trip airfare to Memphis, plus a three-night stay at The Guest House and Elvis Entourage VIP tour, courtesy of Graceland, a custom-wrapped Gibson epiphone guitar and more. Additionally, those who come in to donate June 1-30 will also receive a $5 e-gift card to a merchant of choice.

At a time when health information has never been more important, the Red Cross is screening all blood, platelet and plasma donations from self-identified African American donors for the sickle cell trait. 

This additional screening will provide Black donors with an additional health insight and help the Red Cross identify compatible blood types more quickly to help patients with sickle cell disease. Blood transfusion is an essential treatment for those with sickle cell disease, and blood donations from individuals of the same race, ethnicity and blood type have a unique ability to help patients fighting sickle cell disease.    

Donors can expect to receive sickle cell trait screening results, if applicable, within one to two weeks through the Red Cross Blood Donor App and the online donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org.  

The Red Cross follows a high standard of safety and infection control. The Red Cross will continue to socially distance wherever possible at blood drives, donation centers and facilities. 

While donors are no longer required to wear a face mask, individuals may choose to continue to wear a mask for any reason. The Red Cross will also adhere to more stringent face mask requirements per state and/or local guidance, or at the request of blood drive sponsors. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at a drive.  

The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. 

For more information regarding the American Red Cross, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericanaorg, or visit us on twitter at @RedCross.