The Center for Interfaith Relations in Louisville, Kentucky — host of the annual Festival of Faiths — believes giving blood is an expression of our common humanity. The Red Cross has to collect 15,000 blood donations every day to have enough blood to help patients in 2,700 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country. That’s a lot of patients in need and all of us, coming together, can help ensure patients receive life saving blood.

CIR is seeking 25 donors from anywhere in the United States to support our motto of: Many Faiths. One Heart. Common Action. A single blood donation can help save up to three lives, so your contribution would make a real difference. Please consider donating NOW, as blood supplies are especially low due to the pandemic. As an additional service to donors, the Red Cross will be testing all blood, plasma and platelet donations for COVID-19 antibodies. (You will NOT be tested for the COVID-19 virus itself.) For more information: https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/dlp/covid-19-antibody-testing.html

So #SleevesUp and give the gift of life this holiday season. Make and keep an appointment to give blood to the American Red Cross no matter where you live.