Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Sept. 11, 2024) — In recognition of the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, the American Red Cross of Utah is calling on residents to commemorate this day by donating blood. The nationwide blood shortage experienced during the summer underscores the ongoing importance of maintaining a robust national blood supply.
“September 11 serves as a powerful reminder of our collective strength during times of crisis,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter. “We encourage Utahns to embrace the sense of community and service that this day represents by donating blood. Your contribution could be lifesaving.”
Schedule your blood donation today
As a leading provider of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross contributes about 40% of all blood collected, serving over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide. To meet ongoing patient needs, the Red Cross must collect around 12,500 blood and 3,000 platelet donations daily. Nearly 45 hospitals in Utah depend on the Red Cross for their blood supply.
Donors can easily schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a token of appreciation, all donors visiting between Sept. 1-15 will receive an exclusive Red Cross raglan T-shirt, while supplies last. All who come to give blood Sept. 16-30 will get a $15 e-gift card to their merchant of choice. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Fall for details.
Volunteer in Your Community
Over 275,000 Red Cross volunteers nationwide contribute to their communities by responding to disasters, supporting blood collection, aiding military families, and assisting in national emergencies. In Utah, over 1,500 volunteers supported Red Cross efforts in 2023, including responding to more than 250 home fires assisting over 800 people in need.
The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance has become the largest day of service in the U.S. “Volunteering on the 9/11 Day of Service is a powerful tribute to those we lost, transforming remembrance into action and uniting our communities with courage and compassion,” Donner said.
About September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance
In 2009, September 11 was officially designated as a Day of Service to honor the 2,977 people who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks in 2001. The day is marked by volunteering and service, with many Americans choosing to pay tribute through acts of kindness and goodwill. It stands alongside Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday as one of the only officially recognized Days of Service. Learn more about the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance at 911day.org.
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.