American Red Cross needs donations ahead of holiday season

TULSA, Okla. — The American Red Cross is holding a blood drive called Red White and You on Monday ahead of the holiday and busy summer season.

They have seen 20,000 fewer donations collected this year.

According to the Red Cross, the shortage is due to the recent storms, remote workers and an aging donor generation.

Despite the decrease, their supply is stable, but that could change at any time. Because of this, the Red Cross is asking people to donate to help those who need blood on a regular basis.

The Red Cross said they want to be prepared for anything this holiday season.

"We do see around the fourth of July with increased travel, different activities can lead to accidents and other things that might require more blood," said Matthew Trotter with the Red Cross. "We’ve had blood drives that have been cancelled for severe weather, so there's units that haven’t been able to collect. That’s on top of an already steep decline that we’ve seen just as the donor population gets older, people's habits change, it’s harder to get them to come in and donate."

There are incentives for those that donate in July.

All who come to give blood or platelets in July will get a ticket to see 'Twisters.' Those who donate through the 14th will get a 'Twisters' and Red Cross umbrella while supplies last. Anyone who donates in July will be automatically entered for a chance to win a 2025 Ram 1500 Big Horn.

To donate, you need two forms of ID at check-in. Younger donors have to meet certain height and weight requirements.