The American Red Cross urges Minnesota State Fairgoers to close out the summer on a positive note by donating blood as the nation faces an emergency blood shortage. Since July 1, the Red Cross national blood supply has fallen by more than 25%, and blood donors of all types, especially those with type O blood, are urged to give as soon as possible to help patients receive lifesaving medical care. 

The Red Cross bloodmobile will be located just outside of the Agriculture Horticulture Building, west of the Space Tower. Fairgoers are strongly encouraged to schedule their donation appointment in advance of attending the Fair at redcrossblood.org. Minnesota State Fair admission is required for those wishing to donate at the Red Cross blood drive during the fair. All who come to give will receive a special Red Cross gift, while supplies last.

“Blood donation has become an annual tradition for Minnesota State fairgoers,” says Brice Johnson, Regional CEO, Minnesota and Dakotas Region. “We’re counting on the generosity of Minnesotans to step up to help those in need of lifesaving blood. The decline in blood donations this summer and the ongoing disaster responses mean the need for blood donations is great. Together, we can make a real impact for patients in need.”

Red Cross Special Event Participation:

Friday, Aug. 23 – the 25th annual Governor’s Fire Prevention Day: Look for the Red Cross in the Hot Zone, located at the North End of the fairgrounds (Underwood Street and Hoyt Avenue, just west of The Hanger). Red Cross volunteers will show how the NextGen mobile feeding truck is used during disaster response. Additional home fire safety demonstrations and handout materials will be provided to help educate families on the importance of home fire preparedness. Stop by and learn more about home fire safety.

Tuesday, Aug. 27 – Military Appreciation Day: Red Cross Service to Armed Forces staff and volunteers will share information about Red Cross services for military members, veterans, and their families. Fairgoers can also participate in a trivia game to test their knowledge of International Humanitarian Law and the Red Cross, with a chance to win an industrial-sized first aid kit or a Red Cross disaster survival bag.

How to donate blood

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 in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), 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 and platelet donors can 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, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

Amplify your impact − Volunteer!

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check-in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience. 

Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals. For more information and to apply for a either position, contact RedCross.org/givetime or visit redcross.org/volunteertoday. 

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/mndaks or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @mnredcross.