The American Red Cross is urging people to donate blood as the organization responds to what it calls only the second national blood crisis in its history.

Blood donations have fallen to a four-year summer low, worsening an emergency shortage that could already be affecting patients who depend on lifesaving transfusions.

The Red Cross is asking eligible donors to take action now and help replenish the nation’s blood supply. A Taylorville Community Blood Drive is scheduled for Thursday, August 20th, from 1 to 5 PM at the Taylorville Fire Department Training Room, located at 202 North Main street.

Appointments can be made by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, or 1-800-733-2767, or by visiting RedCrossBlood.org.

The Red Cross says donors can also save up to 15 minutes at their appointment by completing RapidPass before arriving. Information and access to RapidPAss can be found at redcrossblood.org.

There is also an added incentive for those who donate during August. Donors are eligible to receive a 20-dollar Amazon gift card by email, while supplies last. Terms and conditions are also available at redcrossblood.org.

Every blood donation can help save lives, and officials say the current shortage makes those donations especially important.

For appointments or more information, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.

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