Donate blood or platelets to American Red Cross this fall for a chance to win $5K

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — The American Red Cross of Utah launched a sweepstakes on Monday to encourage people to donate blood or platelets this fall for a chance of winning one of three $5,000 gift cards.

If you donate blood or platelets in Utah between October 10 and November 16, you will automatically be entered into the Haunted Harvest Sweepstakes. Everyone who donates will receive a $10 e-gift card, and you will also be entered to win one of three $5,000 gift cards.

There is a constant need for blood, but the need in fall and winter can be especially urgent. According to the Red Cross, blood donations go down as the holiday season approaches, because people are focusing more on things like travel and seasonal celebrations.

At the same time, there is an increased need for blood this time of year, as the number of car accidents and other emergencies go up around the holidays, and that puts a strain on the blood supply.

“With busy fall schedules and school breaks, we often see a drop in blood donations during this time of year,” executive director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter Michael Smauldon said. “We’re calling on both seasoned and first-time donors to make time to give. Your donation could save lives.”

In Utah, nearly 45 hospitals rely on the Red Cross for blood to treat accident victims, cancer patients, and people experiencing other life-threatening emergencies. All blood types are needed, but type O and type B negative donations are especially important for hospitals.

You can make an appointment to donate blood or platelets by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at redcross.org/GiveBlood, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).