The American Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors to join in its lifesaving mission by giving blood during Red Cross Month in March.

Since 1943, every U.S. president has designated March as Red Cross Month to recognize how the Red Cross helps people across the country and around the world. Red Cross Month is a celebration of supporters, who are the face of the Red Cross in their communities and bring hope to people facing emergencies.

The Red Cross depends on blood donor heroes across the nation to collect enough blood to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals nationwide. Donors of all blood types, especially type O, are needed to help those rely on blood products.

Make an appointment to become a hero to patients in need by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Upcoming Mower blood donation opportunities:

2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on March 6 at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 411 W. Main St. in Brownsdale

1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on March 8 at Southland High School, 203 Second St. in Adams

11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 9 at Grand Meadow School, 710 Fourth Ave. NE in Grand Meadow

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. in March 10 at Community Center, 204 W. Main St. in LeRoy