Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (April 19, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is rolling out the red carpet to celebrate Buddy the Blood Drop, the beloved mascot and blood donation ambassador, as he turns 20 years old. But in true Buddy fashion, it’s the blood donors who get the gifts.
Southern Nevadans who donate blood by April 30, 2025, will receive an exclusive Buddy the Blood Drop T-shirt as a special thank-you. All blood donors during this period will also be entered into the nationwide Buddy the Blood Drop Birthday Sweepstakes, where three lucky winners will take home $5,000 gift cards.
“For 20 years, Buddy the Blood Drop has been a cheerful reminder of how one simple act of kindness can save lives,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Buddy embodies the hope and resilience behind every blood donation, inspiring our community to continue showing up for patients in need. Together with Buddy, we celebrate the generosity and compassion of donors who have helped save countless lives over the years, and we encourage even more people to give the gift of life.”
Springtime Need for Blood Donations
Buddy the Dlood Drop’s birthday celebration comes at a vital time. A challenging winter season saw over 1,000 blood drives canceled nationwide, leaving tens of thousands of donations uncollected. And busy spring schedules, including record-breaking travel during spring breaks, have had a significant impact on blood donations.
The Red Cross supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood and serves as a crucial lifeline for patients across the country. Locally, nearly 20 hospitals in Southern Nevada depend on Red Cross blood donations to care for patients in need. To meet demand at over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers, the Red Cross must collect approximately 12,500 blood donations and 3,000 platelet donations every day.
Southern Nevada residents are urged to schedule a blood donation in the coming weeks to help stabilize the supply and meet urgent patient needs. Appointments can be made using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/Give-Blood or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). If immediate appointments are unavailable, donors are encouraged to schedule for a later date.
Buddy the Blood Drop’s Origin Story
Buddy the Blood Drop, an enduring symbol of the American Red Cross, has a story as unique as his cheerful smile. He traces his origins to Oakland, where he was “born and raised” at the Red Cross office in Rockridge. Designed to inspire awareness and action, Buddy quickly became a beloved symbol of generosity and the lifesaving impact of blood donation. From day one, Buddy’s mission has been clear—to remind millions that every drop counts and to rally communities around the critical need for blood to save lives.
Special Incentives for Donors
All blood donors who give in April will be automatically entered into the Buddy the Blood Drop Birthday Sweepstakes for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. All who come to give blood April 14-30, 2025, will receive an exclusive Red Cross Buddy the Blood Drop T-shirt, while supplies last. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Hope.
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 or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
