We know summer is the season for beach days and vacays, but the need for blood doesn’t pause. Unfortunately, there’s been a concerning shortfall in blood and platelet donations through the American Red Cross in recent weeks. You can help – book an appointment to help save lives now.

Calling holiday heroes.

Blood donations often take a dip around the Fourth of July holiday. In thanks for helping ensure a strong blood supply, those who come to give July 1-11 will receive an exclusive Red Cross dry bag, while supplies last.

BONUS: For a limited-time only, when you hurry in to give July 1-16, the Red Cross will send you a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of your choice! See details on both offers at RedCrossBlood.org/gifts.

Don’t be cold-blooded. Give blood.

The Red Cross is teaming up with Warner Bros. Discovery for the 35th anniversary of Shark Week and the theatrical release of Meg 2: The Trench to celebrate a summer of sharks and help avoid frequent summer blood and platelet shortages.

  • As a thank-you to everyone who helps ensure a strong blood supply this summer, all who come to give July 17-31 will receive an officially licensed Shark Week T-shirt, while supplies last.
  • All who come to give through Aug. 12 will also be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night New York getaway for two with a private shark dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium!
  • Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Shark.

Don’t wait – make your appointment to donate.

Appointments can be made by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Type O negate and type B negative blood donors, as well as platelet donors, are especially urged to step up to help now.