$1,000 Gas Card Offered As Blood Donation Incentive
NORTH TEXAS (CBSDFW.COM) - The American Red Cross is sending out an emergency call for blood donations. In fact, the organization is so concerned about the low supply of some blood types that they're entering donors in a special prize drawing.
In order to encourage blood donations this 4th of July weekend, the Red Cross is offering a $1,000 gas card as an incentive to anyone who donates blood from July 1 to July 4.
"If you come in to donate blood, you will immediately be entered in the drawing," explained Red Cross spokesperson Vince Falsarella. "Someone will walk away very happy."
While many workers are preparing for a few days off, officials with the Red Cross say the need for blood "never takes a holiday".
"Summer is usually a difficult time for blood donations," said Falsarella. "Our supply is usually down, and the demand usually goes up."
According to Falsarella, blood supplies usually run low this time of year because people are more active, and therefore more accident-prone and the need for blood increases. But at the same time, he said, because people are more active they forget to donate.
While all blood types are needed, the Red Cross is specifically seeking those who can provide O negative blood since it is a universal donor.
"O negative is the type of blood that everyone can have," said Falsarella. "When they don't have time to check your blood type in the hospital, they can give you O negative without any worries."
Call (800) RedCross, 733-2767, to find the nearest location where you can donate blood or click here to visit the Red Cross website.
