With the American Red Cross facing its worst blood shortage in over a decade, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts has announced that it will thank everyone who donates blood or platelets the week of January 24-31 with a free Original Glazed dozen.

January is National Blood Donor Month and the Red Cross announced its first-ever national blood crisis alert January 11, calling for all Americans who can to roll up their sleeves and donate. Severe winter weather has complicated efforts to rebuild the Red Cross blood supply, with hundreds of blood drives being canceled due to winter storms.

According to the Red Cross, it’s vital that donors continue to come forward in the days and weeks ahead to prevent further delays in lifesaving medical care.

“We’re grateful for all that the American Red Cross does for our country and we want to help them,” says Dave Skena, Krispy Kreme chief marketing officer. “Hopefully a free Original Glazed dozen will increase awareness and even mobilize those who can give blood. We want them to enjoy the doughnuts with our thanks but also share the doughnuts while encouraging others to roll up their sleeves. We’re also encouraging all of our employees who can donate to do so.”

People who donate blood beginning today for the remainder of January can receive a free Original Glazed dozen by visiting a participating Krispy Kreme shop through January 31 and showing either their donation sticker received when they donated or confirmation of their donation on the Red Cross blood donor app.

All types of blood are needed, especially types O positive and O negative, as well as platelet donations. To make an appointment to give blood or platelets, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit the Red Cross website or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

“The Red Cross is grateful to Krispy Kreme for helping us thank our generous blood donors who are stepping up to help restock hospital shelves for patients in need during this historic crisis,” says Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of Donor Services for the American Red Cross. “Our Red Cross teams are working around the clock to meet the needs of hospital patients but can’t do it alone. We hope this thank you from Krispy Kreme will help provide a ‘dozen more reasons’ for eligible individuals to make and keep their donation appointments in the days ahead.”