Earn ice cream, chance to win $500 by donating blood

The American Red Cross and Cold Stone Creamery are teaming up to offer free ice cream to all donors who give blood and platelets in the month of December, officials said.

Donations typically run low during the holidays as many people head out of town.

In addition to the free ice cream from Cold Stone creameries, anyone who gives blood this month anywhere in Southern California will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $500 American Express gift card. Any healthy person 17 years or older that weighs at least 110 pounds is eligible to donate.

Anyone who signs up in either Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego or Ventura counties is invited to fill out an entry form for the gift card drawing through Dec. 31. A winner will be announced by Jan. 15.

To make an appointment call (800) 448-3542 or go to www.givelife.org. Walk-in donors are also eligible.

For Spanish, please call 1-866-POR-VIDA (1-866-767-8432) or go to www.cruzrojaamericana.org.

— Kelly Strodl