CHARLOTTE, North Carolina — The American Red Cross is calling on eligible donors across the United States to give blood or platelets ahead of the busy holiday season, warning that seasonal commitments could disrupt regular donation schedules and affect the availability of blood for patients.
The organization is particularly encouraging people with type O blood to book appointments as it prepares for increased scheduling challenges during November and December.
To encourage participation, the Red Cross has partnered with the popular television game show Wheel of Fortune to offer promotional gifts and a travel prize opportunity to donors who participate between November 23 and December 6, 2026.
Red Cross Highlights Importance of Maintaining Blood Supplies
The final months of the year can present challenges for blood collection organizations as Americans balance holiday travel, family gatherings and other seasonal activities.
According to the Red Cross, maintaining consistent donations during this period is essential to ensuring that hospitals and healthcare providers have access to blood products needed for patient treatment.
Although donations from individuals with all blood types are welcome, the organization has identified type O donors as a particular priority.
The Red Cross supplies approximately 40% of the nation’s blood, making continued donor participation an important component of the American healthcare system.
Blood and platelet donations support patients undergoing medical procedures and receiving treatment for serious health conditions.
Wheel of Fortune Partnership Offers Donor Incentives
As part of its Thanksgiving campaign, the American Red Cross is collaborating with Wheel of Fortune to recognize donors and encourage additional appointments.
Individuals who come to donate blood or platelets from November 23 through December 6 will receive an exclusive oversized Red Cross x Wheel of Fortune mug, while supplies last.
Participants during the promotional period will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a three-night trip for two to Los Angeles, including admission to a Wheel of Fortune television taping.
The campaign combines the visibility of a nationally recognized entertainment program with the Red Cross’s ongoing efforts to maintain blood donation participation.
Wheel of Fortune, now in its 44th syndicated season, is hosted by Ryan Seacrest alongside Vanna White. The program is produced by Sony Pictures Television.
Blood Donation Drives Scheduled Across North Carolina and South Carolina
The Red Cross has announced numerous donation opportunities between November 16 and December 6, including appointments at community centres, churches, hospitals and educational institutions.
In North Carolina, scheduled locations include Asheville, Hendersonville, Brevard, Marion, Franklin, Cullowhee, Banner Elk and several surrounding communities.
The Asheville Blood Donation Center, located at 100 Edgewood Road, will host appointments on multiple dates throughout the campaign.
Other scheduled events include donation drives at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, Henderson County Offices in Hendersonville and St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Brevard.
In South Carolina, a donation opportunity is scheduled for November 24 at First Baptist Church in Blacksburg.
The organization encourages prospective donors to confirm appointment availability before visiting a collection site.
Free A1C Testing Available During November
The Red Cross is also offering an additional health-related benefit during National Diabetes Awareness Month.
Individuals who successfully donate blood in November will receive free A1C testing, limited to one result per calendar year.
An A1C test measures average blood glucose levels over approximately three months and can provide useful information about blood sugar management.
The organization advises donors not to fast before their appointments.
How Eligible Donors Can Schedule an Appointment
Individuals interested in donating can arrange appointments through the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, the organization’s website or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
In most states, eligible donors must be at least 17 years old, although some jurisdictions permit donations at age 16 with parental consent.
Donors must generally weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health and meet applicable eligibility requirements.
Identification is required at check-in. Donors can also use the Red Cross RapidPass service to complete certain pre-donation requirements online before arriving.
With the holiday season approaching, the Red Cross is emphasizing the importance of early appointments and consistent participation to help maintain reliable blood supplies for patients across the United States.
