This April, during National Volunteer Month, the American Red Cross is encouraging people to make a blood donation appointment to help maintain a steady blood supply. Type O blood and platelets are especially needed to keep hospitals stocked with lifesaving products this spring.
Every day, the Red Cross relies on thousands of volunteer donors to collect more than 12,000 blood donations and 3,000 platelet donations. These donations, along with the support of volunteers at blood drives and donation centers, make it possible to provide critical care to patients across the country.
As spring brings busier schedules and travel plans, blood donations remain vital. To schedule a donation, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
From April 14–30, 2025, all donors will receive an exclusive Red Cross T-shirt (while supplies last) and be entered to win one of three $5,000 prizes. In May, donors will receive a $20 e-gift card (May 1–18) and a chance to win a U.S. trip for two.
Learn more at RedCrossBlood.org/May.
