An emergency blood shortage is prompting the American Red Cross to issue an urgent call for eligible donors of all blood types — especially type O — to give now and help save lives.

The Red Cross escalated its call for blood and platelet donors after a difficult Independence Day week for donations. More than 550 fewer blood drives were organized by businesses and other community groups last week than during a typical week, as individuals across the country celebrated the holiday and enjoyed summer activities.

This could equate to as many as 15,000 fewer donations than needed, causing donations to now be distributed to hospitals faster than they come in.

“Each and every day, individuals across the country depend on blood and platelet donations for lifesaving treatments and emergency care, so it’s critical that people donate now to meet these needs,” said Cliff Numark, senior vice president, Red Cross Blood Services. “Whether you’ve never donated or give a couple of times a year, you’re needed to give as soon as possible to help save patient lives. Yours may be the donation a patient is counting on.”

This need is especially critical for type O blood donors. Type O is the most in-demand blood type, and often the first to be depleted from hospital shelves during a shortage.

To schedule an appointment to donate, people may use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

– Submitted by Maya Franklin

Upcoming blood drives in the area include:

Friday, July 20

11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Holy Cross Episcopal Church

150 Melrose Ave., Tryon

Thursday, July 26

2 to 6:30 p.m.

Polk County American Red Cross Chapter

231 Ward St., Columbus