Red Cross urges blood and platelet donations ahead of Fourth of July, offers exclusive goodr sunglasses | WBIW

INDIANA – As the nation approaches the busy Fourth of July holiday week, the American Red Cross is issuing an urgent call for blood and platelet donations to ensure a robust blood supply through mid-summer. While all blood types are critically needed, donors with Type O blood are especially encouraged to schedule appointments now.

Maintaining a steady supply of blood products is vital for patients facing various medical needs, including those in trauma situations who may require multiple life-saving transfusions. Type O negative blood, known as the “universal donor,” is particularly crucial in emergencies when a patient’s blood type is unknown. Similarly, Type O positive, the most common blood type, is in high demand for a wide range of patients.

“Making and keeping donation appointments now is critical to ensuring blood products are available for all patients, including those in trauma situations that may require several lifesaving transfusions, in the weeks to come,” stated a Red Cross spokesperson.

To encourage donations, the Red Cross has partnered with goodr, a popular sunglasses brand. From July 1 to July 14, 2025, all individuals who come to donate blood or platelets will receive an exclusive pair of Red Cross x goodr sunglasses, while supplies last. These unique shades can be personalized with a blood type sticker, allowing donors to display their contribution proudly. More details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/goodr.

For those who donate by June 30, 2025, an additional incentive is being offered: a $15 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, along with an automatic entry to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. Full details for this promotion can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/June.

Donating blood or platelets is a straightforward process. Appointments can be made by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Indiana and neighboring Kentucky from June 23 to July 14 include:

Indiana Counties:

Kentucky Counties:

The Red Cross reminds potential donors that a blood donor card, driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals aged 17 and older (or 16 with parental consent, where allowed by state law), weighing at least 110 pounds, and in generally good health may be eligible to donate. High school students and donors 18 and younger also have specific height and weight requirements.

Donors can expedite their process by using RapidPass® online on the day of their donation to complete pre-donation reading and health history questions. More information is available at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or through the Blood Donor App.