This is World Blood Donor Day and the American Red Cross is urging eligible donors to give blood this summer.
The World Health Organization says every year countries around the globe celebrate World Blood Donor day. The event serves to raise awareness of the need for blood. According to the American Red Cross, only about three percent of the U.S. population gives blood. Communications Manager Kristen Stancil says the need for blood is constant.
"Blood can only come from generous donors, it can't be manufactured, it can only come from those who take a little bit of time out of their day," according Stancil.
She says every donation is vital.
"One donation could help save more than one life and you never know who that donation might help. It could be a neighbor, it could be a loved one, it could be maybe somebody that you don't even know, but you're giving them an opportunity to celebrate another birthday, or to reach another milestone."
The agency is hosting several area blood drives through June and July.
Stancil says you can make an appointment to donate by using the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting Red Cross Blood dot org, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
