Red Cross Calls for Blood, Platelet Donations in Peninsula Blood Drives

The following was submitted for publication by the Bay Area American Red Cross:

This holiday season, the American Red Cross encourages individuals to give something that means something – a blood or platelet donation. This simple, potentially lifesaving act can give patients in need another holiday season with family and friends.

“The need for blood is constant during the winter months, but donations can slow – especially around the holidays,” said Jan Siva, CEO of the Red Cross Northern California Blood Services Region. “Long holiday weekends, like Thanksgiving, pose an extra challenge when many donors are traveling to be with family and friends. Therefore, we encourage people to make an appointment to donate blood and help ensure a sufficient supply for patients in need.”

Donors of all blood types, particularly O negative, A negative and B negative, and platelet donors are urged to schedule an appointment. To encourage donations around Thanksgiving, presenting blood and platelet donors from Nov. 26 through Nov. 30 will receive a Red Cross potholder stuffed with unique recipes from celebrity chefs Mario Batali, Rocco DiSpirito, Alex Guarnaschelli and Mike Isabella, while supplies last.

Eligible donors can learn more and schedule an appointment to give blood using the Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Upcoming blood donation opportunities in San Mateo County:

• 11/26/2014: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Serramonte Mall, 3 Serramonte Center, Daly City
• 11/26/2014: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Home Depot , 1125 Old County Rd, San Carlos

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 consent 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.