Nationwide Initiative Thanks Blood Donors and Encourages Others to Donate with Free, Limited Edition Nexcare give Bandages

Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. However, less than 10 percent of those who are eligible to give actually donate on an annual basis. To help bridge this gap, Nexcare Brand, in partnership with the American Red Cross and America’s Blood Centers, is proud to announce the fourth annual Nexcare give program. A nationwide initiative to raise awareness about the need for blood donation and inspire action, the Nexcare give program shines a light on World Blood Donor Day to thank those who give and encourage others to get involved. This year, the Nexcare giveprogram reminds people that “Giving Blood is Timeless” through a collection of limited edition bandage designs inspired by trends from past decades. The World Health Organization’s World Blood Donor Day is June 14, 2012. Nexcare give Bandages will be distributed at blood centers nationwide that week, beginning Monday, June 11. The bandage collection is also available by going to Nexcaregive.com.

With the support of thousands of participating community blood centers nationwide, the Nexcare give program inspires donors and supporters with a message of hope and gratitude, and helps spread the word by providing Nexcare give Bandages for donors to wear as a badge of honor. A symbol for the cause, these high-performance, diamond-shaped Nexcare give Bandages allow blood donors to show off their commitment and encourage others to give.

“We are so grateful to all donors for their lifesaving work. Each blood donation can help save up to three lives, so what better way to serve your community than by giving blood regularly,” comments Dan Waxman, M.D., president of America’s Blood Centers.

“People in need of blood donations rely on the generosity of others to provide this lifesaving gift,” said Richard J. Benjamin, M.D./Ph.D, chief medical officer, American Red Cross. “Donating blood is a safe and simple process, takes only about an hour of your time and is such an honorable way to give back to your community.”

The limited edition collection of Nexcare give Bandages features patterns based on iconic trends of decades past. Inspired by fashion, design and pop culture from the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, 1990s and 2000s, the 2012 Nexcare give Bandage collection will serve as a nostalgic reminder for current and potential donors that “Giving Blood is Timeless.” The collection, which includes eye catching designs ranging from retro polka dots and tie-dye to grunge plaid, is a nod to the time honored tradition of giving back by donating blood.

World Blood Donor Day and the Nexcare give program come at an important time each year. During the summer months, the nation’s blood supply comes under strain due to fewer donations because of increased vacation schedules and other seasonal distractions. World Blood Donor Day reminds people around the world to donate and enables them to help make an impact in ensuring an adequate blood supply during this time of year.

“We are committed to raising awareness for the ongoing need for blood donation, and are passionate about thanking those who donate regularly,” said Luiz Castro, global business manager, Nexcare Brand, Consumer Health Care Division. “Through the fourth annual Nexcare give program, our goal is to inspire more people to give and recognize those who already do. We hope blood donors will wear their Nexcare give Bandages with pride to show their dedication for the cause and encourage others to get involved.”

The 2012 Nexcare give program kicks off Monday, June 11. Throughout that week, leading up to World Blood Donor Day on June 14, community blood centers will distribute limited edition Nexcare give Bandages, as well as host local events.

To pledge to support blood donation, request free Nexcare giveBandages and enter for a chance to win a trip for two to New York City, visit Nexcaregive.com or text “give” to 34426.*

*Standard data rates may apply.

About The American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

About America’s Blood Centers:

Founded in 1962, America’s Blood Centers is North America’s largest network of community-based, independent blood programs. Recognized by the U.S. Congress for its critical work in patient care and disaster preparedness and response, the federation operates more than 600 blood donor centers providing half of the U.S., and a quarter of the Canadian blood supply.

These blood centers serve more than 150 million people and provide blood products and services to more than 3,500 hospitals and healthcare facilities across North America. America’s Blood Centers’ U.S. members are licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Canadian members are regulated by Health Canada.

For more information, please visit www.AmericasBlood.org

About 3M

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LaForce + StevensMilena Ricci and Marisa Siegel, 212-242-9353mricci@laforce-stevens.comor3M Public Relations and Corporate CommunicationsRobert Brittain, 651-733-7034rbrittain@mmm.com