By Jennifer Theurer

The American Red Cross encourages donors to Level Up their impact by giving blood this holiday season. The last two months of the year can be a challenge for many donors trying to juggle regular donation appointments with packed schedules full of seasonal activities and holiday planning.

Locally, there are two upcoming opportunities to donate. The Catholic Parish Center, 714 Court Street, Clay Center, will host a blood drive by appointment November 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. On December 19, Clay County Medical Center, 617 Liberty, Clay Center, will be accepting appointments from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Donors of all blood types − especially those with types O negative, O positive and B negative blood and those giving platelets− are urged to make an appointment to donate now. Reserve your spot to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or calling 1-800-RED CROSS. The Red Cross is facing a drop in donor turnout this fall and more donors are needed to help keep the blood supply strong.