During the 2012 holiday season, the American Red Cross asks everyone to support its mission by giving something meaningful — giving hope to those in need.

Something meaningful like a blood or platelet donation is a gift that doesn’t cost a thing but can give joy and hope to a hospital patient in need. These patients may include accident victims, cancer patients, surgical candidates, children with blood disorders and many others.

“Please consider taking a few minutes during your busy holiday season to schedule an appointment to roll up a sleeve and help save lives as the New Year approaches,” commented John Hagins, CEO, American Red Cross, Greater Alleghenies Region blood services.

Hagins announced that those who come to donate blood at a Greater Alleghenies Region blood drive through Jan. 2 will receive a long-sleeve holiday themed T-shirt, while supplies last.

“These holiday T-shirts were popular with donors over the Thanksgiving holiday, so we’re offering them to those who are eligible to donate blood during the second half of December and the beginning of January,” he said. “We’re grateful to all blood and platelet donors who help us maintain a sufficient supply of blood for patients in need this holiday season.”

The need for blood remains constant during the holiday season, but busier schedules, holiday travel and other seasonal activities can leave little time to donate blood. “Type O negative blood is always needed to help ensure anyone gets the blood they need in an emergency situation,” Hagins noted.

He explained that type O negative blood is the universal blood type. It can be transfused to anyone who needs blood, regardless of their own blood type. It is often used during emergencies, when there is no time to determine the patient’s blood type.