Blood donors needed

The American Red Cross is urging blood donors to give in the final weeks of summer to help overcome a critical summer blood shortage.

The summer months are among the most challenging times of the year to collect enough blood and platelet donations to meet patient needs. Many regular donors delay giving while they take vacations and participate in summer activities. The need for blood doesn’t take a summer break though.

Donors of all blood types are urgently needed to give now to help ensure blood is available for patients in need. 

Upcoming blood donation opportunities include:

o Staples - Wednesday, Aug. 17, noon - 6 p.m., Faith Lutheran Church, 430 12th St. NE.

o Bertha - Wednesday, Aug. 17, noon - 6 p.m., Community Center, 127 2nd Ave. NW.

To schedule an appointment to give blood, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).