American Red Cross — The satisfaction American Red Cross donors get from giving blood will be twice as sweet during the month of August — thanks in part to a donation from Edible Arrangements®.

In August, all presenting whole blood and double red cell donors at any Red Cross blood donation center or mobile blood drive will receive a coupon for six free pieces of chocolate-dipped fruit from Edible Arrangements®. This special "thank you" comes at a time when blood donations tend to drop due to hot weather, school vacations and holiday travel.

"The American Red Cross is thrilled to partner with Edible Arrangements® during one of the most difficult months for collecting blood," said Sara O'Brien, communications manager of the Northern California Blood Services Region. As a bonus for donors, the Edible Arrangements® giveaway is being held at the same time as the popular "Pint for Pint" promotion.

"Pint for Pint," which also runs through the month of August, allows all presenting whole blood and double red cell donors at any Northern California Region blood donation center or mobile blood drive to receive a coupon for a free pint of Baskin-Robbins® ice cream. The coupons can be redeemed at any Edible Arrangements® or Baskin-Robbins® store locations. Coupons are non-transferable and not redeemable for cash.

Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states), meet height and weight requirements (at least 110 pounds based on height) and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

The nearest blood donor center is the Newark Donor Center, located at 39227 Cedar Boulevard in Newark.

Donors may call 1-800-RED CROSS 1-800-733-2767 or visit redcrossblood.org to schedule an appointment. About the American Red Cross