As Utahns welcomed the new year on January 1, 2026, the American Red Cross of Utah remained steadfast in its commitment to saving lives, keeping its facilities open to meet the ongoing demand for blood donations. With many people enjoying celebrations, volunteers and staff were hard at work, highlighting the critical role that blood donations play in the health care system throughout the state. Benjamin Donner, the executive director of the American Red Cross of Central and Southern Utah, emphasized the importance of maintaining a reliable blood supply, stating, "The majority of all hospitals in the state of Utah rely on the American Red Cross to supply all blood donations." This reliance underscores the organization’s vital role in ensuring that medical facilities are equipped to handle emergencies, surgeries, and ongoing patient treatments. The need for blood donations does not pause for holidays. Blood has a limited shelf life, with red blood cells being viable for just 42 days and platelets for only five days. Donner explained, “If we don’t collect blood and platelets today, we can’t make it up tomorrow.” This continuous demand makes it imperative for the Red Cross to operate year-round, including on significant holidays like New Year's Day. In recent months, however, the Red Cross has faced challenges due to a decline in donation numbers, particularly during the holiday season. Donner noted, "It’s difficult right now; we have seen over the last couple of months a decline in the number of individuals making that choice and coming out to donate." This trend has raised concerns about the adequacy of the blood supply for hospitals across the state. Despite these challenges, dedicated donors such as Hillary Stephenson-Redd took the initiative to give blood on New Year's Day. A stay-at-home mom, she was able to donate while her husband looked after their children. “It’s just a service I feel is really important,” she stated, reflecting on her personal motivations for donating. Stephenson-Redd recounted her family's experiences with blood transfusions, particularly for two children who required care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). “I personally know that people like me benefit from these kinds of things,” she added, underscoring the significance of blood donation in the lives of many families. Benjamin Donner also shared a personal story that highlights the importance of blood donations. “Several years ago, I needed an emergency blood transfusion,” he recalled. “I thought I was passionate about what we do then, but that moment when I was unsure whether or not I would wake up the next day changed everything for me.” He expressed gratitude for the unknown donors who contributed to his recovery, stating, “I get to still be here today because of them.” In an effort to encourage more individuals to consider donating blood, the Red Cross is promoting an additional incentive. From now until January 25, anyone who donates blood or platelets will be automatically entered into a drawing to win a trip for two to Super Bowl 60, which includes airfare, game tickets, hotel accommodations, and other amenities. “Every donor starting today over the next four weeks will be put into that drawing,” Donner explained, highlighting how the Red Cross is attempting to motivate new and returning donors. Hospitals across Utah continue to rely on a steady supply of blood for various medical needs, reinforcing that patients are counting on the Red Cross's consistent presence. “Those patients are counting on us being here. It’s always the case,” Donner stated, affirming the organization's commitment to meeting the community's needs. Individuals interested in making a difference can schedule appointments to donate blood through the Red Cross Blood Donor app or by visiting the Red Cross website. The act of donating blood not only provides crucial support to those in medical need but also serves as a powerful reminder of the communal ties that bind us together, especially at the start of a new year. By participating in blood donation, individuals can truly embody the spirit of giving and hope for a healthier future.