Red Cross urges blood donations, Columbus drive set for July 30

Published 2:05 pm Wednesday, July 23, 2025

POLK COUNTY—The American Red Cross is calling on donors to give blood or platelets now to maintain a steady national blood supply. 

A donation opportunity is scheduled for July 30 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Tryon Estates in Columbus, located at 617 Laurel Lake Dr.

Type O blood donors are especially crucial to maintaining a steady supply of critical blood products on hospital shelves throughout August, the organization says.

“Even a strong blood supply can experience a sudden drop − potentially impacting the availability of lifesaving blood and platelets that could help new mothers, burn and trauma patients, and those facing cancer,” said Kaitlyn Connolly with the Red Cross. “Please help safeguard patient care by booking a time to give blood or platelets.” 

Individuals who donate blood by July 31 will receive a Fandango Movie Reward by email, and those who donate during August will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. The Red Cross will also perform free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes, on a successful donation, with one test result provided per 12-month period. 

To learn more, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.