Tom Brady joins blood donation campaign with the Big Ten conference

Driving the news: The Red Cross declared an emergency blood shortage after its inventory plummeted during the summer.

• The organization reports the number of donors is the lowest in 20 years.
• Only 3% of all eligible Americans donate blood, according to the American Hospital Association.

How it works: The school that drives the most blood donations during the 2024 football season will receive a $1 million donation from Abbott to advance student or community health.

• Students, alumni and fans can donate blood on behalf of any of the 18 member schools at blood centers across the country.

What they're saying: "I've been giving blood since I was in high school," Brady, a University of Michigan alumnus, tells Axios. "The one stat that stood out to me was every person that donates saves up to three lives."

• "You just go there and spend an hour of your time and give something that can really help a lot of people in need."

Caveat: Not everyone is a good candidate for blood donation. Consult with your doctor if you're unsure about your eligibility.