Get ready to power up for a good cause. The American Red Cross is teaming up with Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. to celebrate 45 years of the legendary PAC-MAN. From November 17 through December 7, 2025, everyone who donates blood or platelets will score some exclusive loot: a pair of limited-edition Red Cross x PAC-MAN socks and a custom Red Cross x PAC-MAN GASHAPON® capsule toy—while supplies last.
This partnership couldn’t come at a more important time. The Red Cross is currently seeing a dip in donor turnout, right when blood donations are most needed. The holiday season brings plenty of distractions—shopping, travel, cold weather, and flu season—but the need for blood never takes a break. Every donation helps provide lifesaving support for accident victims, surgery patients, and those battling cancer or chronic illness.
“The last two months of the year can be a challenge to maintain a strong blood supply,” said Darren Irby, executive director of Brand and Partnerships with the Red Cross. “We are thrilled to work with PAC-MAN to help encourage more donations during this critical period.”
For over four decades, PAC-MAN has brought people together with its simple, joyful gameplay and iconic design. Since debuting in arcades in 1980, it’s become one of the most beloved franchises in gaming history, inspiring generations of players, multiple sequels, a hit song, and even two TV shows. Now, as PAC-MAN celebrates his 45th anniversary, he’s taking that spirit of community and turning it into something even more meaningful—helping save lives.
“PAC-MAN has always been about bringing people together and spreading joy,” said Susan Tran, Sr. Director of Brand Development for PAC-MAN at Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. “We’re proud to celebrate 45 years of that legacy by teaming up with the Red Cross to encourage new audiences to take part in something equally rewarding—saving lives through blood donation.”
Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion. That means every donor can make a real difference—whether it’s helping a child with leukemia, a patient undergoing surgery, or someone injured in an accident.
And there’s an extra bonus this November: all successful donations come with a free A1C test, used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes (one per year). So, you’re not just helping others—you’re also taking care of your own health.
Here’s how to join the game:
- Visit RedCrossBlood.org/PACMAN to find a blood drive near you and reserve your spot.
- Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to schedule your appointment.
- You can also enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device for quick access to donation info.
All blood types are needed. Donors must be in good health, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be at least 17 years old in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed).
Want to save time? Use RapidPass® to complete your pre-donation questionnaire online on the day of your appointment. You’ll breeze through check-in faster and get right to helping save lives.
The Red Cross supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood and relies on volunteer donors to keep that supply strong. By donating this season, you’ll be doing more than earning PAC-MAN gear—you’ll be helping keep hospitals stocked and patients safe.
So grab a snack, level up your courage, and join the power-up movement. Together, we can chase away the ghosts of blood shortages and keep the energy of giving alive.
Donate blood, get rewarded, and make a real-life high score. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/PACMAN to schedule your donation today.
Terms and Conditions
Offer applicable to presenting donors only during the following dates: 11/17/2025-12/07/2025 and while supplies last. One size fits most. Offer subject to availability of donation opportunities in presenting donor’s area. No substitutions and not transferable by presenting donor. Not redeemable for cash. © 2025 The American National Red Cross.
PAC-MANTM & ©Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc.
Quantities are limited. Offer applicable to presenting donors only during the following dates: 11/17/2025-12/07/2025 and while supplies last. Offer subject to availability of donation opportunities in presenting donor’s area. No substitutions and not transferable by presenting donor. Not redeemable for cash. © 2025 The American National Red Cross. PAC-MANTM & ©Bandai Namco Entertainment Inc. GASHAPON® is a registered trademark of Bandai Co., Ltd.
