Donating blood can give you a chance to go to Super Bowl LX

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The American Red Cross is asking people to get out and give blood, especially those with types O, A negative and B negative blood.

The intense flu season has led to many people needing to cancel donation appointments. Between that and the busy holiday season, the American Red Cross is trying their best to avoid a winter shortage.

“We’re teetering on the edge of a shortage right now and we’re hoping anyone out there that’s hearing this can make an appointment, come out, give blood and help us get the blood supply strengthened up as we go through the rest of January and into February,” said Don Hawkins, the Central and Southern Ohio Regional Communications Manager.

To help motivate potential blood donors this January, the NFL is partnering with the Red Cross for National Blood Donor Month. Those who donate are automatically entered for a chance to win to the biggest game in football.

“The NFL’s been an amazing partner for us for many years now. And, you know, everyone who gives blood between now and Jan. 31 is entered in to win a trip to the Super Bowl. All kinds of cool stuff you get to go do and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Hawkins said. “So, come give blood and get yourself entered in there and maybe you’ll be one of the winners. ”

You can find a blood drive near you or schedule an appointment by visiting their website at RedCrossBlood.Org or by downloading the American Red Cross Blood Donor app.