The American Red Cross-Utah Region: Last Minute Giving And Gifting Made Easy

Trina Polta is a guest blogger for the American Red Cross in Utah. She's back to help you fill all your gift giving needs.

Are you scrambling to complete your holiday shopping in the next 48 hours? Want to avoid the crowded malls and inflated online shipping fees today and tomorrow? Not to worry, because the American Red Cross has you covered in a few ways.

Option A

Ease your stress level and give the gift of kindness by donating basic survival and educational items from our 2010 Holiday Giving Catalog. Here is how it works, you choose to buy a gift like the blanket set ($18 for 3 blankets). Proceed through the quick online check out process and your purchase is done in no time. Now you can print a copy of your order immediately from the site or from your email. Finally, write a little note in a holiday card (to your special someone) saying you just donated 3 blankets on their behalf. Congratulations! You've just accomplished a great deed by giving a gift to your loved one as well as giving a gift to a deserving family.

I personally love this option because most of my family lives out of state. The American Red Cross 2010 Holiday Giving Catalog is a great seasonal giving option, because I'm avoiding shipping costs, and extra baggage fees at the airport. Plus, I really feel great knowing that my donation is going to help another person when they really need it. Another added bonus, not that you need another reason, but in case you were wondering, your gifts are tax-deductible.

Option B

Are you still losing sleep on what gift you are going to get your relative that happens to have everything? Or, do you still need a hostess gift for an upcoming party? The second option the American Red Cross is offering can be found in their online Red Cross Store. Right now you can snag 10% off the top ten favorite survival gear items. You can never be too prepared and either can your relative who has everything. Just purchase and print out a copy of your order to put in any holiday card. There is also a holiday gift shop where you can buy presents for everyone including babies, adults and pets. You'll find emergency preparedness supplies, first aid kits, educational materials (books and videos), clothing and other accessories that are great for any household. You will also find easy to shop categories by price, recipient or purpose.

Bonus Buys

So, really if you are not a last minute holiday shopper this is for you. Really this BONUS BUY is for everyone who loves a great deal! Currently, there are four discounted deals that will save you 20% off beach towels, fall apparel, and the popular 100 Year Anniversary First Aid Kit. You can also get 50% off holiday cards. When you shop the Red Cross Store, you support the lifesaving mission of the American Red Cross.