It can’t be wrapped or placed under a tree, but the perfect gift can help save patient lives this holiday season. The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to give the lifesaving gift of a blood donation in December, a time when donations decline but the needs of patients remain steady.

Donors of all blood types are needed this holiday season to help ensure a sufficient supply for hospital patients. To encourage donations, all those who come to donate Dec. 22, 2016, through Jan. 8, 2017, will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.

To make an appointment to give blood, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Donors are encouraged to make appointments and complete the RapidPass online health history questionnaire at redcrossblood.org/rapidpass to save time when donating.

– article submitted by Alyson Barraza

Upcoming Donation Opportunities

Hendersonville

Dec. 19: 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., American Red Cross, 203 2nd Ave. East

Dec. 26: 12-4:30 p.m., Applebee’s, 1635 Four Seasons Blvd.

Dec. 29: 12:30-6 p.m., WTZQ Holiday Blood Drive, First United Methodist Church, 204 6th Ave. West

Forest City

Dec. 16: 12-5:30 p.m., Forest City Fire Dept., 186 S. Church St.

Dec. 16: 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Lifestyle Wellness and Spa, 247 Oak St.

Dec. 27: 10 a.m. -2:30 p.m., Lowe’s, 184 Lowe’s Blvd.