The American Red Cross, Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerry Rice and Suburban Propane have joined together to encourage communities to commit to a simple act with a powerful impact – giving blood or platelets for patients in need.  

This spring, it’s critically important the Red Cross maintains a readily available blood supply for those who rely on transfusions for treatment. Since donated blood has a limited shelf life, supplies must be constantly replenished to ensure a sufficient inventory of blood products. With no substitution for blood and no way to manufacture it, volunteer donors are the only source of blood products for patients with sickle cell disease, car accident victims and parents experiencing difficult childbirths. 

As a blood donor himself, Jerry Rice urges individuals to roll up a sleeve and take pride in the lifesaving impact they’re making.

“Here’s your chance to make a difference,” said Rice. “You never know who you might be helping. It could be a friend or family member who needs blood – and that’s why it’s so important.” 

As a thank-you, Suburban Propane is fueling a lifetime of road-tripping memories with a special opportunity for donors who answer the call to give power to patients. Those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma between now and May 19 will be automatically entered to win a travel trailer camper that sleeps eight. Plus, those who come to give will also receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, all courtesy of Suburban Propane. (Conditions apply.)

“We are honored to join our longtime partners at the American Red Cross and football legend Jerry Rice to raise awareness about the need for blood this spring,” said Nandini Sankara, spokesperson, Suburban Propane. “This effort is a wonderful addition to our SuburbanCares initiative, aimed at giving back to our local communities throughout the nation, and we are delighted to sponsor the camper giveaway in hopes of motivating even more people to donate blood and give the gift of life.”  

A simple act can lead to lifesaving care. To schedule an appointment to donate blood, platelets or plasma, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767).  

Upcoming blood donation opportunities 

April 28 - 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Ellinwood District Hospital, 605 N. Main

April 29 - 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sterling College, 125 Cooper

May 3 - 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Prince of Peace Parish Center, 4124 Broadway Ave.

May 10 - 9:30 a.m. to 4  p.m., Great Bend American Legion, 1011 Kansas Ave.

May 11 - 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Great Bend American Legion, 1011 Kansas Ave.

May 12 - noon to 6 p.m. at Faith Bible Church, 102 Coronado Drive, Lyons

May 16 - 11:15 a.m. to 6 p.m., St. Rose Auditorium, 1412 Baker Ave.

May 18 - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Congregational Church, 410 Clinton St., Little River