Beginning August 1, all who come to donate will receive a voucher for a 3-month Crafttapped membership and a free coffee
MINNESOTA – Memorial Blood Centers (MBC) is kicking off its annual “Blood for a Brew” campaign to encourage blood donations during the critical summer months. Expanded this year to include local coffee shops, the campaign gives everyone who donates at an MBC donor center or mobile blood drive between August 1 and August 31 a voucher for a three-month Crafttapped membership, plus a free coffee from a participating coffee shop.
Donors can redeem their Crafttapped membership for 10 buy-one-get-one offers each month at participating breweries, distilleries, restaurants, and bars, making it easy to support local businesses while making a lifesaving blood donation.
“August is traditionally one of the most challenging times of year for the blood supply, and this year is no exception as blood centers nationwide continue to experience seasonal declines in donations,” said Kathy Geist, Vice President of Operations at Memorial Blood Centers. “We’re incredibly grateful to the local businesses partnering with us to spread the word. It’s a fun way to thank our donors while supporting the small businesses that make our communities so special.”
MBC recently declared its second blood emergency of the summer after the regional blood supply fell well below the level needed to meet routine and emergency patient needs. The shortage extends well beyond Minnesota, with blood centers across the country now navigating a national blood crisis. MBC is asking all eligible donors, especially those with type O blood, to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Every donation is essential to ensuring hospitals have the blood they need to treat patients. Blood donors can give every 56 days, and platelet donors up to twice each month. Recent FDA eligibility updates also mean more people than ever may now be eligible to donate. To view current eligibility guidelines or make an appointment, visit mbc.org or call 1.888.448.3253.
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About Memorial Blood Centers
Founded in 1948, Memorial Blood Centers have served Minnesota and Wisconsin for more than 75 years, delivering more than 125,000 lifesaving blood products annually to 50+ hospitals, EMS and healthcare partners. MBC is part of New York Blood Center Enterprises (NYBCe), which spans 17+ states and delivers one million blood products to 400+ U.S. hospitals annually. NYBCe additionally delivers cellular therapies, specialty pharmacy, and medical services to 200+ research, academic and biopharmaceutical organizations. NYBCe’s Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute is a leader in hematology and transfusion medicine research, dedicated to the study, prevention, treatment and cure of bloodborne and blood-related diseases. MBC serves as a vital community lifeline dedicated to helping patients and advancing global public health. To learn more, visit mbc.org. Connect with us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
