The American Red Cross is issuing an urgent plea for all eligible donors to give blood now to bolster the nation’s blood supply, which faces significant challenges during the summer months. With Type O blood products in critical demand, and summer activities coupled with severe weather posing threats to collection efforts, consistent donations are more crucial than ever.

Summer, typically a challenging period for blood collection, sees a confluence of factors that can rapidly deplete reserves. Vacation travel, holiday observances, and unpredictable severe weather events, from heatwaves to storms, can disrupt donation schedules and reduce donor turnout. This strained supply is particularly concerning for patients in trauma situations, who may require multiple lifesaving transfusions.

“Scheduling and keeping donation appointments are crucial this month to ensure blood products are constantly available in the weeks to come for all patients,” stated a Red Cross spokesperson. “While all blood types are needed and valued, Type O blood products are especially vital on hospital shelves, often used in emergencies when a patient’s blood type is unknown.”

Donors who are unsure of their blood type can learn it after donating. Every contribution helps ensure that hospitals have the necessary blood products to save lives.

How to Donate Blood: Making an appointment to donate blood is simple and convenient. Donors can:

  • Visit RedCrossBlood.org
  • Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
  • Use the Red Cross Blood Donor App
  • Enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device

Donor Eligibility and Preparation: Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed 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 of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements. A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification, are required at check-in.

To save time at their next donation, the Red Cross encourages donors to use RapidPass®. This allows individuals to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. RapidPass can be accessed via RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or the Blood Donor App.

Special Thank-You Gifts for Donors: As a token of gratitude for their vital contribution, the Red Cross is offering special incentives for donors throughout July 2025:

  • By July 14, 2025: All who come to give blood will receive an exclusive pair of Red Cross x goodr sunglasses, while supplies last. Donors can even personalize their shades with a blood type sticker included! For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/goodr.
  • July 15-31, 2025: The Red Cross will say thanks with a Fandango Movie Reward by email. Use it to catch a summer blockbuster on the Red Cross! See RedCrossBlood.org/July for more information.

Donating blood is a simple yet powerful act that can make a profound difference in the lives of patients. Your immediate support is critical to maintaining a strong blood supply this summer.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, 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 deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.