HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — As summer heats up and Fourth of July plans fill the calendar, the American Red Cross is sounding the alarm that blood donations are down and the need is rising.
The organization is urging people across North Alabama and the country to schedule a blood or platelet donation to help ensure hospitals are stocked through the busy holiday stretch. While all blood types are needed, type O blood is in especially high demand due to its critical role in emergencies and routine care.
To help boost participation, the Red Cross is offering several incentives. Donors who give by June 30 will receive a $15 Amazon.com gift card by email and be entered to win one of two $7,000 gift cards…