Blood drives at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Hamilton Community Center next week

The American Red Cross urges donors to give thanks and give back by making a plan to give blood or platelets next week at two blood drives in Hancock County.

Basco Immanuel Lutheran Church, 921 N. Co. Rd. 1900, Carthage, will be hosting a blood drive from 12-5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 4, and Hamilton Community Center, 1680 Keokuk St., Hamilton, will host another Tuesday, Dec. 5, from 11:30 a.m. — 5 p.m.

This time of year is traditionally hard on the nation’s blood supply. Seasonal illness, winter weather and holiday celebrations often lead to lower appointment numbers and decreased donor turnout, making it hard to keep up with the demand for blood products. When they give now, donors can ensure patients have access to lifesaving blood and platelets through the end of the year.

The public can schedule an appointment now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).