TOWNSEND – The American Red Cross is asking area residents to roll up their sleeves this month as the organization works to rebuild the nation’s blood supply during what it has described as only the second national blood crisis in its history.

A community blood drive is scheduled for Monday, August 24, 2026, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Townsend Town Hall, 16564 Elm St. Donors may give blood or make a Power Red donation.

As a thank-you, people who come to give blood during August will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email. Terms and conditions for the promotion are available at rcblood.org/August.

The Red Cross says all blood types are needed, with type O blood in especially short supply. The organization reported that the blood supply fell nearly 25% in June and that donations have dropped to a four-year summer low, creating urgent demand for donors.

Power Red donations collect red blood cells while returning most plasma and platelets to the donor. People making a Power Red donation must meet specific eligibility requirements and have type A negative, B negative or O blood.

Appointments can be scheduled through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, at RedCrossBlood.org and enter zip code 54175, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Published on: Aug 4, 2026 at 10:08 am