American Red Cross

Give thanks this Thanksgiving by giving blood and receive a free pie

OMAHA, Neb. (November 21, 2008) – Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for giving thanks with family and friends. In the spirit of the season, the Red Cross is thanking its blood donors by offering all presenting donors a complimentary pie at special blood drives in Council Bluffs Thanksgiving week and in the Omaha metro on Thanksgiving Day.

The free pies are being donated by Bakers Supermarkets for the Omaha drives that are hosted at three area Bakers locations. Village Inn is donating free pie vouchers to all presenting donors at the special drives in Council Bluffs and will also be at the blood drive on Saturday, November 29th with their mascot, Bucky the Bear, to serve free slices of pie to donors.

While the need for blood is ongoing, the supply isn’t – especially around the holidays. Long holiday weekends pose an extra challenge when many donors are traveling to see family and friends.

“Every two seconds someone in America will need blood,” said Patricia Rubens, CEO of the local Red Cross Blood Services region. “That is why the American Red Cross needs healthy and eligible donors to donate regularly – especially during the holidays.”

Monday, November 24-Loess Hills Chapter of the American Red Cross:
• 12:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
• 705 N. 16th St, Council Bluffs

Tuesday, November 25-Loess Hills Chapter of the American Red Cross:
• 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• 705 N. 16th St, Council Bluffs

Thursday, November 27 – Three Omaha metro Bakers locations:
• 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• 17370 Lakeside Hills Plaza, Omaha
• 13250 West Maple St, Omaha
• 3614 Twin Creek, Bellevue

Saturday, November 29-Loess Hills Chapter of the American Red Cross:
• 7:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
• 705 N. 16th St, Council Bluffs

How to Donate Blood
Simply call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit givebloodgivelife.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. Eligible donors must be at least 17-years-old, or 16-years-old with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form where state permits, must weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health.

About the American Red Cross
Governed by volunteers and supported by giving individuals and communities, the American Red Cross is the single largest supplier of blood products to hospitals throughout the United States. While local hospital needs are always met first, the Red Cross also helps ensure no patient goes without blood no matter where or when they need it. In addition to providing nearly half of the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides relief to victims of disaster, trains millions in lifesaving skills, serves as a communication link between U.S. military members and their families, and assists victims of international disasters or conflicts.                                                      
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