In the face of a severe blood shortage, the American Red Cross is urging people to donate if they have the opportunity.

During September and October, the Red Cross collected over 21,000 fewer blood and platelet donations than what hospitals needed. Blood donors of all blood types, especially type O, are urged to make an appointment to donate at RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

An additional 4,300 blood drives nationally – and about 420 blood drives in this area – are needed in December, January and February to help stop the shortage from continuing throughout winter. Donations often decline during the winter holidays when many groups postpone blood drives while regular donors are busy with holiday activities and travel.

Severe winter weather may also cause blood drive cancellations contributing to fewer donations than needed.

Mower County Drives

Austin

Nov. 19: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mower County Senior Citizens Center, 400 3rd Ave. NE

Nov. 26: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Austin Utilities, 1908 14th St. NE

Nov. 29: Noon to 6 p.m., St. Edwards Catholic Church, 2000 Oakland Ave. W.

Dec. 3: Noon to 6 p.m., The Spam Museum, 101 3rd Ave. NE

Dec. 7: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., YMCA, 704 1st Drive NW

Dec. 11: Noon to 6 p.m., St John’s Lutheran, 1200 NW 13th Ave.

Dec. 12: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Good Samaritan Society, 1201 17th St. NE