(PADUCAH, Ky.)— The American Red Cross is calling on residents to schedule blood and platelet donations immediately as the organization braces for a seasonal decline in donor participation that typically occurs during the fall months.
The urgent appeal comes as October historically sees a sharp drop in donation appointments when people become absorbed in busy fall schedules and begin planning for upcoming school breaks, according to Red Cross officials.
“While emergencies often grab headlines, the need for blood is constant,” the organization stated in an announcement Tuesday.
The timing is particularly critical this year as hurricane season continues to pose threats throughout October. Because blood products have limited shelf lives and can only be obtained from volunteer donors, any disruption to collection efforts could have severe consequences for patients requiring medical care.
Incentives Offered to Boost Participation
To encourage donations, the Red Cross is offering financial incentives through two promotional periods. Donors who give blood, platelets or plasma between Sept. 22 and Oct. 19 will receive a $10 Amazon.com gift card by email.
Those who donate between Oct. 20 and Nov. 16 will receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice and be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards.
How to Donate
Residents can schedule appointments by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
Multiple donation opportunities are available throughout western Kentucky and southern Illinois from Oct. 16-31, including locations in Murray, Paducah, Mayfield, Marion, Calvert City, La Center, Eddyville and Joppa, Illinois. The Paducah Blood Donation Center on Falconcrest Drive is offering nearly daily appointment times throughout the period.
For complete details on incentives and to find additional donation locations, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Fall and RedCrossBlood.org/Harvest.