Find a Blood Drive
Find a Blood Drive
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (June 12, 2018) — Hit a homerun by teaming up with the Birmingham Barons and the American Red Cross to donate blood and help save lives June 26 from 1 to 8 p.m. at Regions Field Banquet Room, 1401 1st Ave., South Birmingham.
Blood donations historically decline during the summer months for a variety of reasons, including busy schedules and vacations, but the need remains constant. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease may all need blood.
“The Birmingham Barons, including Babe Ruff and Lillie Mays, are excited to be a part of this lifesaving effort,” said Claire Griffith, director of ticketing operations/community relations, Birmingham Barons. “Last year’s event provided more than 200 pints of blood to area hospitals and we’re looking forward to doing the same June 26.”
Presenting donors will receive free parking in the VIP lot located on the corner of 3rd Ave. South and 14th St. South, two tickets to a Barons game and a commemorative T-shirt, while supplies last. Hot dogs, chips and drinks will also be available.
“We depend on community partners like the Barons to help raise awareness of the ongoing need for blood, especially during the challenging summer months,” said Mario Sedlock, director of donor recruitment, Red Cross Alabama and Central Gulf Coast Blood Services Region. “Their support along with help from iHeart Radio and Encompass Health goes a long way in helping the community to understand the constant need.”
Those with types O, A negative and B negative blood are encouraged to make a Power Red donation. Power Red donors give a concentrated dose of red blood cells during a single donation, allowing them to maximize their impact. During this type of donation, red blood cells are separated from other blood components, and the plasma and platelets are safely and comfortably returned to the donor.
How to donate blood
For more information and to make an appointment to donate, download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org sponsor code: BARONS or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors of all blood types are needed. 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.