American Red Cross officials made an urgent request for blood and platelet donors due to a troubling decline in scheduled donations, which account for 90% of all contributions.

This drop comes at a critical time, with summer approaching – a season that often sees an uptick in severe injuries from car accidents, ATV crashes, and sports-related incidents.

Several factors are contributing to the decline in donations, including end-of-school-year activities, summer travel, and extreme weather. With many large-scale events scheduled in the upcoming months, the demand for blood also increases, while blood collection experiences a seasonal downturn.

Incentives include a complimentary Red Cross beach towel and those who donate between June 1-28 will receive a $15 e-gift card and a chance to win one of two $7,500 gift cards.

Schedule appointments by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

A donation can make a lifesaving difference this summer.