American Red Cross offering limited-edition Snoopy sweatshirt to platelet donors

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — If you’re a fan of Snoopy, the lovable beagle from Peanuts, the American Red Cross is offering limited edition sweatshirts to those who donate platelets between today and Oct. 5.

The Red Cross x PEANUTS® t-shirt went viral on social media a few years ago, and now it’s available in sweatshirt form. The American Red Cross of Utah is currently encouraging platelet donation, offering a “Be cool. Give platelets.” sweatshirt featuring Snoopy to those who donate between Monday, Sept. 22 and Sunday, Oct. 5.

Donating platelets is different from a regular blood donation. According to a press release from the American Red Cross of Utah, platelets have a short shelf life of five to seven days. The process of platelet donation involves “separating platelets from the blood and returning the remaining components to the donor.”

The process takes roughly two hours, and donors are invited to relax, watch a movie, or read a book during that time. First-time platelet donors who donate by Nov. 30 will also receive a $40 e-gift card.

“Platelet donations are vital for patients battling serious health conditions, and this campaign gives Utahns a chance to make a meaningful impact while receiving a one-of-a-kind Snoopy sweatshirt,” Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Greater Salt Lake Chapter, is quoted in a press release. “With our donation centers open every day the next two weeks, it’s easier than ever to schedule a platelet donation and be part of this important effort.”

As part of the giveaway, Red Cross Blood Donation Centers in Salt Lake City, Lehi, and Layton will be open daily to make it easier for Utahns to get involved.

Schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Use sponsor codes “SaltLakeCityUT,” “LaytonUT,” or “LehiUT” to make an appointment online.

To learn more about donating platelets and receive a Snoopy sweatshirt before they’re gone on October 5, visit the American Red Cross website.