COLUMBUS — As summer officially begins and people gather for holiday celebrations, the American Red Cross reminds communities that patients are counting now on the generosity of blood and platelet donors, especially around the Fourth of July.

The Red Cross sees about a 21% decline in blood and platelet donations during holiday weeks, including Independence Day. When blood donations drop, so does the blood supply, making it extremely challenging to ensure blood is available when hospitals need it.

By scheduling and keeping appointments in July, donors can help provide for those in immediate need of lifesaving care. To schedule an appointment to donate, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

As a thank-you for helping, all those who come to give June 30-July 10 will receive an exclusive Red Cross recycled cotton tote bag, while supplies last.

Local upcoming blood donation opportunities July 1-15:

Bucyrus

7/5/2022: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Hord Family Farm, 911 St RT 98

7/5/2022: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., Amvets Post 27 – Bucyrus, 235 E Galen St

7/8/2022: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Bucyrus Community Hospital, 629 N. Sandusky Street

7/14/2022: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m., Knights of Columbus – Hall, 217 S. Poplar St.

Crestline

7/13/2022: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., Colonel Crawford High School, 5444 Crestline Road

Galion

7/12/2022: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Galion Alliance Church, 430 Portland Way N