Red Cross seeing severe blood shortage, offering incentives for donors

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Give blood and get a reward! That's the incentive the American Red Cross is offering as they continue to experience a severe blood shortage this summer. 

The Red Cross says donors are needed now to ensure blood is available for patients in need of lifesaving care this month.

As a thank-you, the American Red Cross says all who come to give blood July 7-31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card via email and will also receive automatic entry for a chance to win gas for a year (a $5,000 value).

Additionally, all who come to donate throughout the entire month of July will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for four to Cedar Point or Knott’s Berry Farm.

Each winner will receive a trip including:

• Travel and two-night accommodations at a participating hotel
• Two days’ worth of family four-pack admission tickets during the 2021 season
• Special experience items to make the most of your visit, including fast pass, all day dining pass and souvenir cup with free refills for each ticket holder per day

In most cases, those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine can donate. However, knowing the name of the manufacturer of the vaccine they received is important in determining donation eligibility.

For more information, CLICK HERE.

Below is a list of blood donation opportunities July 16-31.