“Every day this summer is a chance to give a lifesaving gift,” said Sharon Pitt, CEO of the Carolinas Blood Services Region. “Making a blood donation with the Red Cross is an easy way to extend hope and help ensure lifesaving blood products are available for patients here in our community and across the nation.”
Vacations and summer activities often result in a decline in blood donations during the summer. In fact, during the months of June, July and August, about two fewer donors give blood at each Red Cross blood drive than what patients need.
All presenting donors will receive a coupon off the purchase of a 48oz. container of Turkey Hill All Natural Ice Cream.  Blood is especially needed this time of year, so the public is asked to schedule a donation today.
“100 Days of Summer. 100 Days of Hope.” runs through Sept. 1. All summer, the Red Cross will encourage at least two more donors to give blood at each Red Cross blood drive – above what is expected.
Individuals can visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to choose a day to donate and help sustain adequate supplies over the summer months.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Thursday, August 14
Polk County American Red Cross Chapter
231 Ward Street, Columbus
2 – 6:30 p.m.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (828) 894-2700.
To donate blood, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org 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 (16 with parental consent in some states), 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.
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families.
The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, visit redcross.org or visit on Twitter at @RedCross.
For more information, contact Bill Roseborough, Bill.Roseborough@redcross.org or 828-231-1372.
– article submitted
by Becca Cummings