Utah Red Cross announces new partnership to encourage blood donations

SALT LAKE CITY — During the month of November, Utah Red Cross is launching the, “Together We Give” blood drive campaign in partnership with Allegiant airlines. The goal of this campaign is to bolster the nation’s blood supply along with Hurricane Ian recovery efforts, said a release from American Red Cross. 

Although Hurricane Ian swept through areas of Flordia more than a month ago, hundreds of people remain homeless and reliant on Red Cross for food, water and support. 

“With the help of our partners, we have provided some 1.6 million meals and snacks and 404,000 relief items, such as cleaning supplies and comfort kits,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region in a press release.

The CEO of Allegiant, John Redmond, said some of the company’s employees reside throughout the hardest-hit areas of Florida, creating a personal tie to the campaign. The airline hopes to reach 1,500 blood donations nationwide by the end of the month. 

“We know first-hand from our team members in Florida that disaster relief initiatives need to continue,” said Redmond. Both the Red Cross and Allegiant want to ensure those struggling with the aftermath of the hurricane don’t feel forgotten. 

Furthermore, the Red Cross said they especially encourage those with type O blood to donate. 

Interested in scheduling a Red Cross blood donation today, click here. 

Related readings:

• ‘I can’t do this’: Fort Myers Beach woman calls for help as Hurricane Ian’s storm surge floods her home
• Utah Red Cross urges residents to donate in wake of Hurricane Ian
• Florida faces an ’emotional roller coaster’ as search for Hurricane Ian survivors continues