23rd annual MSU-PSU Blood Challenge kicks-off Oct. 31

EAST LANSING, Mich.— The American Red Cross, Michigan State University and Penn State University are once again teaming up for the 23rd annual MSU-PSU Blood Challenge.  All eligible MSU students, staff, alumni and fans are encouraged to roll up their sleeves to help save lives during the three week challenge, which runs from Oct. 31 through Nov. 20.

The friendly competition began in 1994 and has brought in more than 72,000 blood donations.  Penn State leads the blood donor challenge series 14 to 8 and is looking for its second win in a row.

“We are thrilled and honored to once again partner with both universities for this annual competition,” said Todd Kulman, Communications Program Manager for the Red Cross Great Lakes Blood Services Region.  “Everyone who bleeds green and white is encouraged to make an appointment to donate blood at one of the more than 25 blood drives included in the challenge.”

Everyone who comes to donate on the MSU campus during the three-week challenge will receive a free Michigan State-Penn State Blood Challenge T-shirt (while supplies last) and will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win great prizes including a $250 Eastwood Towne Center gift card and a one night stay with breakfast at the East Lansing Marriott.

“Michigan State and Penn State will take the blood battle to the football field on November 26th,” added Kulman. “The blood donor challenge is a great way to show you bleed green and white AND you’re committed to helping save lives.”

To make an appointment to donate blood during the MSU-PSU Blood Challenge, visit redcrossblood.org and enter Sponsor Code: MSU or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

MSU-PSU Blood Challenge donation opportunities:

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood donors can now save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, prior to arriving at the blood drive. To get started and learn more, visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass and follow the instructions on the site.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

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