American Red Cross Recognizes Its Blood Donors and Supporters at Richmond International Raceway

WASHINGTON, April 25, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Through a long-standing partnership with 3M and Roush Fenway Racing, Greg Biffle's No. 16 Ford will feature an American Red Cross paint scheme at the Toyota Owners 400 in Richmond, Va., this weekend.

The vintage blue paint scheme asks racing fans to give blood and thanks its loyal supporters and donors who help keep the nation's blood supply stable with regular blood donations. The Red Cross provides about 40 percent of America's blood supply and the recent events in Boston and Texas show the importance of our nation's blood supply.

"As a blood donor, I can help save a life," said Biffle. "The gift of a blood donation cannot be replaced by anything else in the world, and it means a world of difference to those in need. By giving blood every 56 days, people across America help ensure a sufficient blood supply is available."

With the recent events in West, Texas and Boston, Mass., the Red Cross has responded in many ways. The organization has provided additional blood products to the areas, along with shelter, food and mental health support to those communities. Specifically, the Red Cross has sent approximately 500 additional units of blood, platelets and plasma to Boston-area hospitals and has provided blood products to help those injured by the explosion in West, Texas. The Red Cross has the ability to move blood around the country to where it is needed most and it stands ready to assist with any additional requests of blood and blood products. 

"The need for blood is constant," said Darren Irby, executive director of Red Cross Blood Services. "And it's the blood on the shelves that helps save lives when emergencies occur."

Eligible blood donors are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment to give in the days and weeks ahead, especially Type O donors.  Type O negative blood is often used during emergencies, when there is no time to determine the patient's blood type.

The American Red Cross is celebrating the sixth year of its Red Cross Racing partnership with 3M and Roush Fenway Racing. Thanks to a generous donation from 3M and support by Greg Biffle, the No. 16 Ford also featured a Red Cross paint scheme during the March 10 race in Las Vegas.

How to Donate Blood
All blood types are needed to ensure an adequate supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver's license, or two other forms of positive identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are generally in 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. Visit redcrossblood.org for more information.

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 join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

Contact: Amanda Mark
Telephone: (612) 360-2936
[email protected]

SOURCE American Red Cross