Monroe County Blood Drives

Create a new holiday tradition by giving blood or platelets
Donors who come to give in December can give a gift and get a gift

COLUMBIA, MO (Dec. 2, 2024) — As holiday celebrations continue into December, the
American Red Cross encourages donors to keep the blood supply top of mind by giving
blood or platelets this month. Type O negative blood donors and those giving platelets are
especially urged to give now to help ensure patients can continue to receive the care they need
in the coming weeks.
Record-breaking November travel is expected to carry into the new year, which could cause
some potential donors to put off blood donation until after the holiday season. In addition to
millions of Americans traveling to spend holidays with loved ones, extended vacations are also
surging in popularity at a time when fewer people may be available to give lifesaving blood
products.
Bring joy to someone facing a medical emergency; give something that means
something with a blood or platelet donation. Schedule an appointment this December by
using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED
CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
For a limited time, those who come to give Dec. 9-15, 2024, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a
merchant of choice. Those who come to give Dec. 16, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025, will receive an
exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. For details on both offers, visit
RedCrossBlood.org/Gifts.