The Rhode Island Blood Center is bringing back its annual “Pint for a Pint” campaign this August, offering donors a free beverage voucher at one of eight participating local breweries in exchange for giving blood during one of the most critical stretches of the year for the blood supply.
From August 1 through August 31, anyone 21 or older who donates at an RIBC donor center or select mobile blood drive will receive a voucher redeemable for a free beverage at a participating establishment. A full list of breweries is available at ribc.org.
The campaign comes at a particularly urgent moment. RIBC recently declared a blood emergency after the regional blood supply dropped to its lowest level since the COVID-19 pandemic, part of a broader national blood crisis affecting centers across the country. The organization is especially urging donors with type O blood to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
“Blood is a unique lifesaving resource for which there is no substitute. It can’t be manufactured or ordered into existence. It can only be given, freely, from one human being to another,” said Hunter Shaffer, RIBC Vice President of Operations. “A pint enjoyed with friends can follow a pint given to save a stranger.”
Blood donors can give every 56 days; platelet donors can give up to twice per month. Recent updates to FDA eligibility guidelines mean more people than ever may qualify to donate. To make an appointment or check eligibility, visit ribc.org or call 401-453-8383.
