The American Red Cross urges people not to wait to make a lifesaving impact this fall by scheduling a blood donation appointment in September. The blood supply remains vulnerable after recovering from critically low levels during a summer blood shortage, and now is the time for donors of all blood types to help patients who count on blood products for care.
Reserve a spot to give now. Visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App to schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment. Those who come to give Sept. 1-20, 2026, will receive an exclusive Red Cross x Hello Kitty ® plush mascot clip and surprise sticker pack, while supplies last! Visit RedCrossBlood.org/HelloKitty for details.
Those who come to give Sept. 21-Oct. 18, 2026, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Fall for details. Additionally, all who come to give Sept. 21-30, 2026, at Red Cross blood donation centers and mention the word “pickleball” to Red Cross staff or volunteers onsite can score a custom Red Cross pickleball paddle and ball (limited quantities available). Visit RedCrossBlood.org/FindADonationCenter for more information.
Leave a lifesaving legacy
Even as the seasons change, the need for blood does not. The mission of the Red Cross Blood Services remains constant — and carries on today thanks to the innovation and leadership of Dr. Charles R. Drew.
This year marks the 85th anniversary of Dr. Charles R. Drew's appointment as the first medical director of the Red Cross Blood Program. To commemorate his lasting contributions, the Red Cross is releasing Iconic Excellence, a short documentary exploring Drew's life and steadfast influence.
Beginning Sept. 18, the film will be available to stream on the Red Cross YouTube channel. Community members can help carry Drew's legacy forward by donating blood, encouraging others to give or hosting a screening of the documentary to inspire lifesaving action. Learn more and get started at RedCrossBlood.org/IconicExcellence.
Blood donation opportunities
Barton County
Ellinwood
9/25/2026: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.,
St Joseph's Parish Center, 110 W. 2nd St.
Great Bend
9/4/2026: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.,
Polk Street Building, 1309 Polk Street
9/21/2026: 12:30 p.m. - 6 p.m.,
St Rose Auditorium, 1412 Baker St
10/1/2026: 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.,
Barton County Community College Case New Holland Lab,
245 N.E. 30 Road
9/15/2026: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.,
Club 1 Fitness, 3806 Broadway Ave
10/5/2026: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.,
Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, 4801 10th St
Ellsworth County
Ellsworth
10/5/2026: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.,
St Bernard's Catholic Church, 911 N. Kansas
Wilson
10/2/2026: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.,
St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, 2807 Avenue D, Box 528
Pawnee County
Larned
10/9/2026: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.,
Columbus Club, 1216 M Rd
Rice County
Sterling
9/17/2026: 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.,
Sterling High School, 308 E. Washington