The American Red Cross of Utah is teaming up with the University of Utah to celebrate President Taylor R. Randall’s inauguration, with a blood drive to help ensure the community’s blood supply.
Randall approached the Red Cross about holding a blood drive to commemorate his inauguration and highlight the U’s dedication to education and health care. The University Student Union Programming Council is sponsoring the blood drive scheduled for March 23 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in the Student Union.
“The country faces a fragile blood supply, a blood drive will benefit both the community and state,” said Randall, “I know the students, faculty and staff of the U understand the importance of this cause and will answer the call to give blood.”
Since the pandemic began, the number of blood donors nationwide has dropped 10% and the nation’s blood supply remains in need, according to the Red Cross. Those who are eligible to donate are urged to do so now to help overcome this current shortage. “We can shore up the blood supply with one simple act of kindness—donation,” said Randall.
“We applaud students at the University of Utah for organizing a blood drive in recognition of Dr. Randall’s inauguration,” said Heidi Ruster, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “A single blood donation can help save more than one life—a teen who was in an accident, a grandfather in need of heart surgery, a friend being treated for cancer or a child with sickle cell disease.”
In the days and weeks ahead, it’s critically important the Red Cross maintains a readily available blood supply so hospital patients can receive the care they need. To make an appointment, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Blood drive safety
Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows a high level of safety and infection control, and additional precautions—including face masks for donors and staff, regardless of vaccination status—have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive.
Save time during the donation
Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass. With RapidPass, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
To donate blood, individuals must bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.