ST. LOUIS, Mo. — As we move toward Memorial Day, the American Red Cross calls on people to schedule their blood or platelet donation appointments now to help medical centers stay ready and respond quickly to emergencies. Having blood products immediately available is a key part of summer safety.
With millions of Americans expected to hit the road around Memorial Day and spend time boating, swimming, camping and enjoying the outdoors, the risk of traumatic accidents rises. Blood and platelets on hospital shelves help meet the demand when people experience critical injuries and massive bleeding. During Trauma Awareness Month, the Red Cross highlights this need by asking donors of all blood types and those giving platelets to give now to support all patients who count on transfusions for care.
Book your time to give lifesaving blood or platelets now — To schedule, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
Those who come to give by May 31, 2026, will receive an oversized Red Cross beach towel, while supplies last.
All who come to give June 1-28, 2026, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,500 gift cards. See RedCrossBlood.org/June for details.
Upcoming River Region blood donation opportunities May 20-June 7:
Perryville
5/21/2026: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Robinson Construction Company, 2411 Walters Lane
Evansville
6/1/2026: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m., Knights of Columbus, 303 Broad St.
Sparta
6/2/2026: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m., VFW Post 2698, 1911 North Market Street
Steeleville
6/3/2026: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., American Legion Hall, 305 South Chester
Perryville
6/3/2026: 1:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., Caring Hands, 620 N Kingshighway St