The holidays bring families and friends together to share in celebrations and special times of giving. But for families dealing with a cancer diagnosis or other major illness, the holidays can be difficult.

The American Red Cross’ Give Something that Means Something winter campaign runs through Jan. 6, 2014, and encourages eligible donors to give something meaningful this holiday season by donating blood or platelets for hospital patients in need.  

“Historically, during the winter months of November, December and January, fewer donors make the time to give blood due to competing seasonal activities, celebrations and holiday shopping,” said Sharyn Whitman, CEO of the Red Cross Indiana-Ohio Blood Services Region. “By doing something that doesn’t cost a thing, you can give an amazing gift – you can offer hope to a patient in need.”

Blood donations can help fathers like Larry. Larry’s premature twins needed blood to survive. Thanks to the Red Cross, it was there. Larry has been a blood donor for more than 20 years and every time he donates, he’s reminded of the opportunity he has to give something that means something.

  Blood donors are encouraged to invite a loved one to follow in their footsteps and donate blood this holiday season. Visithttp://rcblood.org/HolidayPostcard to upload a picture of a Red Cross blood donation and send a postcard to a loved one. For more information or to make an appointment to give blood or platelets, please visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:
·         Tuesday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the American Red Cross Allen County Chapter House, located at 610 S. Collett St. in Lima.
·         Wednesday, Dec. 4, from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus in the Hall, located at 1011 Elida Ave. in Delphos.
·         Thursday, Dec. 5, from noon until 6 p.m. at First Mennonite in the Upstairs Room, located at 101 S. Jackson St. in Bluffton.

How to donate blood
Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org 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 (16 with parental consent in Indiana and Ohio), 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.

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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.