May 4, 2021 (OKLAHOMA CITY) Oklahoma Blood Institute is celebrating vaccinated blood donors through its new promotional campaign, thanking those who have been vaccinated with an exclusive t-shirt.

The campaign is being launched in conjunction with the Oklahoma State Department of Health as a way to celebrate two actions Oklahomans can take to protect the health of those around them.

“We’re excited to join Oklahoma Blood Institute in launching this campaign to celebrate vaccination and blood donation for Oklahomans,” said Dr. Lance Frye, state commissioner of health. “Oklahoma Blood Institute has been stalwart in its support of strong community health across the state, and we’re proud to support this initiative to increase both blood donations and vaccination to stop the spread of COVID-19.”

The campaign provides blood donors who have been vaccinated the option to receive an exclusive, baseball-style t-shirt. The shirt is an eye-catching way to spread awareness about the role vaccinations and herd immunity play in reopening the nation and getting everyone “Back in the Game.”

In addition, the campaign further incentivizes donors to come in and give blood, during a time of heightened need. Oklahoma Blood Institute continues to experience a surge in hospital blood usage, leaving the blood supply less secure than desired.

“We’re excited to celebrate those donors who are hitting a health home run by both donating blood and being vaccinated,” said Dr. John Armitage, president and

CEO of Oklahoma Blood Institute. “Both actions can have a significant impact on the health of our community and the lives of our neighbors. By doing both, you’re really an All-Star, so we’re happy to provide a wearable, highly visible signal of these good deeds to our vaccinated donors.”

Those who have been vaccinated can donate without a waiting period, assuming they are feeling well. Vaccinated or not, blood donors continue to be needed to respond to increased demand. Each donation takes about an hour and can save up to three lives.

Donors are encouraged to make an appointment to donate at 877-340-8777 or obi.org.

Oklahoma Blood Institute is the 6th-largest independent blood center in the nation, providing more than 90% of Oklahoma’s blood supply to over 160 hospitals and medical facilities. For more information, visit obi.org.