The American Red Cross is offering a chance to get free gasoline for a year in exchange for a blood donation.
The organization has seen a significant drop in blood donations this summer, and donors are needed in order to avoid a seasonal blood shortage. The decline in donations has caused the Red Cross’ blood supply to shrink to nearly 20% in recent weeks, according to an American Red Cross news release.
The availability of supply will continue to decline if donations do not increase. If the trend continues, it may become more difficult to keep blood products stocked on hospital shelves, Red Cross officials say.
The Red Cross is encouraging people to not wait until there is a blood shortage to give. Donors with Type O-negative blood are especially needed right now, officials say.
As a thank-you, those who donate from Aug. 1 to Aug. 31 will automatically be entered for a chance to win free gas for a year — a $6,000 value. There will be three winners chosen, according to the news release.
Additionally, everyone who donates in August will also receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, officials say.
Terms and conditions apply for the gas and gift card offers. For more information, go to rcblood.org/fuel.
Donors can schedule an appointment to donate using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
