All presenting blood donors have the chance to win a prize package worth $200
PEORIA, Ill. (May 21, 2012) - Memorial Day weekends are always packed full of fun summer activities. But as individuals and families kick-off their summer plans, it's important to remember that the need for blood does not take a summer holiday.
To help ensure a stable blood supply for patients in need this Memorial Day, the American Red Cross is encouraging all eligible blood donors to make donating blood and platelets a part of their summer holiday plans. Five presenting donors who give blood from May 24 through May 30 within the American Red Cross Heart of America Blood Services Region will win a GiftCertificates.com prize package worth $200 redeemable for items of their choosing. Winning donors can choose from restaurants, department stores, books, music, electronics and more!
"With the arrival of summer, blood donations tend to decline as eligible donors fill their schedules with vacations and other summer activities, leaving little time to donate," said Shelly Heiden, CEO of the Heart of America Region. "The need for blood is constant. As donors choose how to spend their time this Memorial Day, we encourage them to make time to help give life by donating blood or platelets with the Red Cross."
As part of the Red Cross' Live Life. Give Life. summer-long promotion (May 21 - September 5), all presenting donors will also be entered to receive a prize certificate package worth $5,000 redeemable at GiftCertificates.com. One lucky donor will be able to live a little, using the prize certificate to choose from hundreds of available prize options.
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 at http://blog.redcross.org.
The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give blood.™
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