Red Cross offering free rides for blood donation

CHARLOTTE — Last week's severe winter weather resulted in 29 blood drive cancellations and more than 3,100 uncollected blood and platelet donations.

The American Red Cross has partnered with Uber, offering blood donors free rides to and from Red Cross blood drives in Charlotte, up to $30 each way.

"When we heard about the impact severe winter weather had on the blood supply here in Charlotte, we wanted to find a way to support the American Red Cross' efforts to collect blood," said David Salsone, Uber Charlotte general manager. "With free Uber rides to blood drives at the touch of a button, we're hoping that more people will take a little time out of their day to give blood and help save a life."

The Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region provides blood to 103 hospitals and needs 1,600 people to donate blood and platelets each weekday to meet hospital demand.

Please click here to see the Red Cross and Uber's website, which includes a list of upcoming blood drives that would include a free ride.

WSOC