By Kathryn Dean, American Red Cross volunteer

Attention all Millennials & Gen Xers, Hello Kitty is back! Nostalgia is hitting younger generations, and Hello Kitty has become a viral sensation. Before you rummage through your home for old collectibles to sell online, consider making an appointment with the American Red Cross to give blood this September.

Thanks to the kindness and generosity of donors who stepped up in recent months, the summer blood crisis is over. However, the need for blood is constant.  With hurricane season fast approaching and the recent flooding disasters overseas, the Red Cross wants to keep a steady blood supply on hand in preparation of emergencies.

To show our appreciation, the Red Cross and Hello Kitty^® and Friends are partnering this September to bring you an exclusive collectible! When you come in to donate blood between Sept. 1-20, you will receive a Red Cross × Hello Kitty® plush mascot clip and surprise sticker pack, while supplies last! 

Remember:

• One donation of whole blood can help save up to three people’s lives.
• Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. requires a blood product.
• 62% of people in the U.S. meet eligibility requirements to donate, yet only around 3% actually do.

One small act of kindness can make a world of difference in someone’s life.  Help care for your community by donating a renewable resource that you carry around every day: your blood. For more details regarding this special promotion, visit RedCrossBlood.org/ HelloKitty.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, Red Cross volunteer