Media Contact: Alexis Gonzalez 
(682) 419-6682 | Alexis.Gonzalez@redcross.org

WICHITA FALLS, TEXAS, Feb. 5, 2024 – Midwestern State University will host its first blood drive with the American Red Cross Big Country Chapter on February 20 in response to the ongoing national blood shortage. During our winter months blood donations normally go down, but in the first month of 2024 weather has forced the cancellation of more blood drives than in all of 2023!

In the first month of 2024 the Red Cross has canceled 534 blood drives due to inclement weather. More than 15,000 blood and platelet units have gone uncollected. Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with type B negative or O negative blood.

Midwestern State University will roll up its sleeve in response to the ongoing need for blood donations on Tuesday, February 20, from 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and schedule an appointment to give today! As a thank-you, those who come to give by Feb. 29, 2024, will receive a $20 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. 

Midwestern State University- Clark Student Center
Comanche Suites
2451 Comanche Trail
Wichita Falls, TX 76308

How to donate blood
Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. 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. 
 

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/northtexas or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCrossNTX.