American Red Cross urges blood donations ahead of holiday season

The American Red Cross is calling for blood and platelet donations from all blood types, with a particular emphasis on type O, to ensure a steady supply for hospitals during the upcoming holiday season.

To encourage participation, donors who give between October 19 and November 22, 2026, can receive up to $20 in value through a $10 Amazon gift card and 500 Blood Donor Rewards points. Additionally, in recognition of National Diabetes Awareness Month in November, successful donors will be eligible for free A1C testing to screen for prediabetes and diabetes.