MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — The American Red Cross is urging people in South Dakota to make appointments to donate blood or platelets as it warns the nation’s blood supply is at risk of a winter shortage.
In a Jan. 5 news release, the Red Cross said it is distributing blood products to hospitals faster than donations are coming in, and that missed donations in December — along with busy holiday schedules and seasonal illnesses — have strained inventories.
To encourage donations during National Blood Donor Month, the Red Cross said anyone who donates blood or platelets from Jan. 1-25, 2026, will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LX through its partnership with the NFL.
According to the Red Cross giveaway details, the prize package includes Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, airfare, a three-night hotel stay (Feb. 6-9, 2026), tickets to Super Bowl Experience and a $1,000 gift card.
The Red Cross is also teaming up with Saquon Barkley, described in the release as a pro football champion and blood donor, to encourage donors to book appointments.
Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.