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COVID-19 creates new challenges for Montana blood donations

Posted at 11:23 AM, Oct 20, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-20 13:28:43-04

BOZEMAN — The need for blood donations is typically always high but organizations are now saying that need may be higher than ever because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The American Red Cross is giving small incentives for donors now until Nov. 11 with gift cards to help encourage people to donate. Donors can get $5 Amazon gift cards and be entered to win $1,000, all to help the nonprofit with their blood supply during this challenging time.

“We rely on businesses and groups, your civic organizations, schools to hold blood drives, and when they are not in session or when the business has asked their workers to work from home, then the business may be closed to the public,” explained Diane Wright, the executive director of the Montana chapter of the American Red Cross.

Anyone in Montana can download the American Red Cross App to see available opportunities to donate blood.