Red Cross urges blood donations in May as seasonal demand increases

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

KENTUCKY (KBSI) — The American Red Cross is encouraging residents to schedule blood and platelet donations this month to help maintain a stable supply amid seasonal challenges.

Officials said busy schedules at the end of the school year and the start of summer often lead to fewer donation appointments, which can strain the blood supply.

The organization is urging donors of all blood types to make appointments in May and consider returning later in the summer to maximize their impact.

As an incentive, those who donate between May 1 and May 17 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email, while donors from May 18 through May 31 will receive a Red Cross beach towel while supplies last.

Multiple blood drives are scheduled across Kentucky and southern Illinois throughout the month, including locations in Paducah, Murray, Benton and surrounding communities.

Officials said donors can schedule an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or using the Red Cross Blood Donor app.