With an urgent need for blood donations during the holiday season, the American Red Cross is conducting a blood drive today (Friday) from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place off McIntosh Trail.

The Red Cross typically sees donations drop off over the holidays, in part because some routine blood drives are cancelled.

One unit of blood can save the lives of up to three people.

Minority donors are always needed to safely treat patients with rare blood types or who must have repeat transfusions due to sickle cell anemia, cancer, heart disease and other serious ailments. Blood from someone of a particular ethnic background is more likely to be compatible with a patient from a similar background, Red Cross officials said.

To schedule an appointment to donate, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (448-3543) or visit www.redcrossblood.org.

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