The American Red Cross continues to amplify the ongoing critical need for blood and platelets to keep the blood supply stable as fall begins. Donors of all blood types, especially those with type O blood, those giving platelets and those who have never given before, are needed now.

Only 3 out of 100 Americans donate blood. With the blood supply still at critical levels, every single donation is key to making sure all patients relying on lifesaving transfusions, including car accident victims and those living with sickle cell disease, get the care they need.

Fall into donating blood or platelets. Make an appointment to give now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities include:

Escanaba

Oct. 1: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Immanuel Lutheran Church, Immanuel Lutheran Church, 600 S. Lincoln Rd.

Oct. 15: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., Wellspring Church, 301 N Lincoln

Oct. 16: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Wellspring Church, 301 N Lincoln

Oct. 23: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Heirman University Center, 2001 Lincoln

Carney

Oct. 23: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., Carney Evangelical Free Church, 52 Church Street

Menominee

Oct. 15: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., LE Jones Co R and D Technology Center, R&D Technology Center, 3711 Tenth St.

Stephenson

Oct. 17: 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Stephenson Fire Department, Stephenson Fire Department, W628 Samuel St

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. 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 of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

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.