Red Cross: 

Make an Immediate Difference by Giving Blood or Platelets Now

Boston,MA  — The American Red Cross urges all donors to give blood or platelets now to keep the blood supply strong this summer. Type O blood products are most needed on hospital shelves – especially in the face of summer challenges that can quickly cause blood and platelet reserves to drop.  

All blood types are needed, and donors who don’t know their blood type can learn it after donation. Book a time to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.  

Upcoming blood donation opportunities nearby

Thursday, August 7, 2025, Franklin Elks, 1-6 p.m.

1077 Pond Street, Franklin

Saturday, August 16, 2025,St. Mary’s School, 9 a.m.- 2 p.m.

1 Pleasant St., Franklin

Thursday, August 21, 2025, Franklin Elks, 1-6 p.m.

1077 Pond Street, Franklin

Thursday, September 4, 2025, Franklin Elks, 1-6 p.m.

1077 Pond Street, Franklin

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

For more information about the American Red Cross, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.