TIM MCGRAW - MCGRAW URGES AMERICANS TO GIVE BLOOD

Country music sensation TIM MCGRAW is raising the profile of the AMERICAN RED CROSS by encouraging Americans to donate blood.

GRAMMY-winning McGraw is headlining the NEIGHBOURS GIVE LIFE initiative from today (31MAR05) until 5 September (05), sponsored by the Red Cross and STATE FARM INSURANCE.

The DOWN ON THE FARM singer says, "I'm a big fan of the organisation. They're always on the front line of any disaster."

Red Cross officials are concerned for Americans in the event of a national disaster, as they claim there is less than half of the amount of blood supply needed. Also, just five per cent of Americans eligible to give blood actually donate, according to the organisation.

McGraw adds, "It's just a simple thing, and you help more than you realise."

The organisers are spicing up the awareness campaign with a bevy of prizes, including free tickets to a McGraw concert and autographed copies of his smash hit LIVE LIKE YOU WERE DYING album.