Red Cross to Give Gift Cards to Blood Donors

During normal times, there was always a need for blood donors across America. During COVID times, that need shot through the roof. Not nearly as many people were going out to blood drives in their attempts to stay six feet apart. As a result, this meant the Red Cross reserves became very depleted.The American Red Cross recently launched a campaign to incentivize donations. Blood, and platelet donors who make a donation between July 7-31 will receive $10 Amazon.com gift card. Furthermore, they will be entered for a chance to win gas for a year, up to a $5000 value.Those who have had a COVID-19 vaccine may still donate. However, the Red Cross will need to know what company produced that individual's vaccine. Click here to see the fine print and schedule an appointment near you.

In most cases, to donate blood you must:

• Be in good health and feeling well
• Be at least 16 years old
• Weigh at least 110lbs

Some of the common factors that disqualify people are:

• Feeling ill
• Taking certain medications
• Weighing too little or being too young
• Recent travel outside the US

However, there a few myths out there about why someone cannot donate. One false notion is that tattoos disqualify you. That is mostly false. The main reason anyone would be disqualified for tattoos is if they got their tattoos in a non-licensed or non-sterile facility. The Red Cross put together this video below to address those concerns.https://youtu.be/qm9DZFrLWQUIf you cannot donate blood for some reason. The Red Cross says there are other ways to contribute. They suggest hosting a blood drive, volunteering, or making a financial donation.The Department of Veteran Affairs boosted this call action by including a flyer in their e-newsletter. As well as posting an article on their website.Stay tuned to American Grit for more news, stories and updates.