Patients needing blood or platelets rely on committed blood donors

The American Red Cross is highlighting the ongoing need for blood and platelet donors this fall.

Eligible individuals, especially those with type O blood and those giving platelets, are encouraged to make a donation ahead of the holiday seasons.

The blood supply must remain steady. The Red Cross has worked hard this month to recover blood products uncollected because of recent hurricanes. Any disruption in the ability to collect blood can lead to an impact on routine and lifesaving medical care.

The seasons may change but the need for blood donors stays the same. Give blood or platelets and make a big difference in someone’s life by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

In thanks, those who come to give by Oct. 31 will receive a $10 Amazon gift card by email, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. Those who come to give from Nov. 1-17 will receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice, plus be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Thanks.

Blood donation opportunities in the area through Nov. 17:

Tampico: Nov. 6, 1 to 6 p.m., Reagan Community Center, 202 W. Second St.

Lanark: Nov. 11, noon to 6 p.m. Eastland High School, 500 School Drive.

Hooppole: Nov. 13, 2:30 to 6 p.m., Hooppole Community Center, 1404 Washington St.

Morrison: Nov. 14, noon to 6 p.m., St. Mary Catholic Church, 13320 Garden Plain Road.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.

Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

High school students and other donors 18 years and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation or before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

How to donate blood

Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-733-2767 or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information.

Amplify your impact by volunteering

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience.

Volunteers also can serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals.

For more information and to apply for either position, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.