Red Cross provides donation incentives as need for blood becomes critical

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) — Amid a critical need for donations, the American Red Cross is reminding those in West Virginia and across the country about the need for blood in many life-saving techniques all while providing incentives for people to donate blood themselves.

With the hopes of avoiding a summer blood shortage, the Red Cross has teamed up with Universal Pictures for the theatrical release of Twisters to try and generate donations. Anyone who donates blood between July 1-31 will get a Fandango Movie Ticket by email. Those who donate blood by July 14 will also receive a one-of-a-kind Twisters and Red Cross umbrella while supplies last. Plus, those who come to donate blood in July will also be entered for a chance to win a 2025 Ram 1500 Big Horn.

According to American Red Cross of Allegheny Highlands Executive Director Jason Keeling, blood donations tend to go down during the summer months, primarily due to the fact people are on vacation and have other priorities. However, amid the critical need, all blood types are in demand, especially type O blood.

“The need for blood is constant and so this is a call to potential donors to consider stepping up and helping those in need of blood products. These are people that need transfusions in a variety of ways, maybe someone who’s been in an auto accident, maybe someone who’s undergoing cancer treatment. There really are numerous needs for blood,” said Keeling.

If you’re interested in donating blood you can visit RedCrossBlood.org for more information and to find a blood drive near you.

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