PHILADELPHIA, PA — Winter storms may have passed, but their impact on the nation’s blood supply is still being felt.
Blizzard conditions along parts of the East Coast forced the cancellation of more than 100 blood drives, resulting in over 2,500 uncollected blood and platelet donations. In Southeastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey alone, 30 canceled drives led to nearly 1,000 missed donations — adding pressure to a supply the American Red Cross is working to stabilize after a severe shortage earlier this year.
Now, as March marks Red Cross Month, the organization is inviting donors to help replenish the blood supply while gaining valuable insight into their own health.
Throughout March, everyone who makes a successful blood, platelet or plasma donation will receive free A1C testing — a simple screening that measures average blood sugar levels over the past three months. According to new Red Cross data, 1 in 5 blood donors has elevated A1C levels, with 80% of those results indicating prediabetes, a condition that can often be reversed through lifestyle changes.
“Too many people still face gaps in access to preventive care, and the Red Cross is proud to help close them by giving our 2.5 million blood and platelet donors easy access to essential health information, like their blood sugar levels,” said Dr. Courtney Lawrence, Red Cross medical director. “By giving blood and downloading our Blood Donor App, individuals can be informed and empowered to better manage and advocate for their health.”
The A1C test does not require fasting, and results are available within one to two weeks through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or online donor portal. As an added thank-you, donors who give between March 1 and March 31 will also receive a $15 Amazon gift card by email.
Event Details
- What: March Blood, Platelet and Plasma Donations with Free A1C Testing
- When: March 1–31, 2026
- Where: American Red Cross donation sites nationwide
- Cost/Tickets: Free; appointment required
- More Info: Schedule an appointment at https://www.RedCrossBlood.org, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Promotion details at https://www.RedCrossBlood.org/March
For many, donating blood is already a lifesaving act. In March, it can also serve as an opportunity to learn more about personal health — and take proactive steps if needed.
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