The Red Cross is urging eligible individuals to give now and is offering a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card by email for those who help avoid delays in lifesaving medical care for patients by rolling up a sleeve to give.
While thousands of people have responded to the urgent call for blood donations issued in early July, an emergency need remains.
Blood donations are needed now as many regular donors delay giving to take final summer vacations and prepare for school to start.
Currently, there is less than a three-day supply of most blood types and less than a two-day supply of type O. Blood donations are currently being distributed to hospitals faster than they are coming in. More donations are needed now to replenish the blood supply.