ENCINITAS, CA – Save lives and get a gift card by donating blood or platelets through the American Red Cross.
The Red Cross, which supplies about 40 percent of the country’s blood, issued its first ever blood crisis in January due to the COVID-19 pandemic and severe winter weather.
“The Red Cross blood supply remains vulnerable and individuals are encouraged to plan a blood or platelet donation,” a press release said. “In the coming days and weeks, it is crucial that the Red Cross maintains an easily accessible blood supply so that hospital patients can receive the care they need.”
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Anyone who donates blood or platelets in March will receive a $ 10 e-gift card thanks to Fanatics. Donors will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for two to the 2022 MLB All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
Red Cross blood tests are being conducted throughout San Diego County, including in Cardiff, a community of Encinitas. See a list of upcoming blood tests below. Donors are asked to make an appointment before arriving for a blood transfusion.
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Blood Donation Opportunities
What To Know About Giving Blood
All blood types are needed. Interested in donating? Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) for more information or to make an appointment.
A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.
Individuals who are 17 in most states (16 with parental consent where permitted by state law), 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 and younger must also meet certain height and weight requirements.
Donors can save time by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive.
