Salt Lake City residents encouraged to give blood.

The American Red Cross is teaming up with Military Medical group Omega Psi Phi to give away 150 backpacks to disadvantaged children who need them before school starts. The groups are turning Sugarhouse Park into an adventure wonderland for children to come and spend the day with their families. There will be carnival games, giveaways and treats and for all.

“We have recognized that getting kids started early in school year, resource wise, helps the kids and parents educationally and financially. Not only do we give away book bags but we also fill those book bags with necessary local school supplies. This is the 12th year we have held this event and we have steadily increased the number of kids served,” said BK Jones, a representative of Omega Psi Phi.
American Red Cross is facing a looming shortage of the blood types most needed by patients and is calling on eligible donors with O negative, B negative and A negative blood to give now to prevent an emergency situation. The following blood drive is being held to help to restock our shelves.

Additional opportunities to give blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 some states), 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.