Posted on October 14th, 2022.

Following a disappointing September, the local chapter of the American Red Cross is looking for an upswing in donations for the rest of this month.

“September was a tough month in terms of blood collection. We had to cancel a few blood drives, which did not help. We did not make goal for Athens, but October is a new month,” said Jordan Staley, account manager for the Athens and Morgan counties chapters of the American Red Cross.

Staley noted that as the fall months turn to the holiday season, there could be even more challenges for the chapters in getting the blood donations they need.

“During the holidays it does become difficult to get donors in the door — due to family visits, travel, etc. Some businesses also hold off on hosting blood drives during the holiday seasons,” she said, noting, though that, luckily, the winter weather doesn’t necessarily affect those numbers.

“Cold weather doesn’t typically deter donors, unless there is a large amount of snowfall. “We will see what happens this year,” Staley said.

No matter the season, though, Staley emphasized how important it is for people to consider donating.

“There is a constant need for regular blood donors because we can only store blood/blood products for a limited period of time before use,” she said. “Regular blood donations by enough healthy people are needed to ensure that blood will always be available whenever and wherever it is needed.”

Staley said that there is not a specific blood type shortage in the area, “but our Type O donors are always especially needed because that is what the hospitals request the most.”

In order to attract more donors this month, the chapters have implemented the following incentives.

For October, donors can receive a $5 e-gift card to the merchant of their choice — rcblood.org/boo. They will also be entered into a drawing to win two Ohio State vs. Indiana football game tickets for Nov. 12.

Additionally, donors will receive a buy one get one ticket coupon to a Columbus Blue Jackets hockey game. She noted that ticket coupons for that incentive are only available while supplies last.

Looking ahead to November, donors who give blood between Nov. 1 and Nov. 22 will also receive a $5 gift card. And in a promotion that Staley bills as “Hats off to You,” those donating between November 23 and 27 will receive an exclusive Red Cross knit beanie. That promotion is also on a limited basis.

Thanks to the chapters partners at Amazon, Staley said that all donors who come to give blood between Nov. 28 and Dec. 15 will receive a $10 gift card by email.

In addition to that promotion, there is one added incentive for the month of December that Staley calls “Shake up your Traditions.” Between Dec 16 and Jan 2, all who donate will receive a new long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt. Supplies are limited.

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