The American Red Cross is facing an emergency blood shortage as it experiences the lowest number of people giving blood in the last 20 years. Blood and platelet donations are needed now to help alleviate the shortage and ensure lifesaving medical procedures proceed without delay.

The American Red Cross stated "Over the last 20 years, the number of people donating blood through the Red Cross has fallen by about 40%. When fewer people donate blood, even small disruptions to blood donations – such as the nearly 7,000-unit shortfall in blood donations the Red Cross experienced between Christmas and New Year’s Day alone – can have a huge impact on the availability of blood products and dramatic consequences for those in need of emergency blood transfusion. "

To make an appointment today to give blood or platelets to help ensure people receive the care they need. Book now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Click HERE for available appointments and locations or search below:

In the south Baldwin County area you can give blood at the following locations or bus drives:

Thursday, Jan. 11

Coastal Alabama Community College-Gulf Shores

SEE TIMES

3301 Gulf Shores Pkwy
Gulf Shores, AL 36542

7.7 mi 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM

Wednesday, Jan. 17

Foley Community St Pauls Lutheran Church

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400 N Alston St
Foley, AL 36536

2.7 mi 11:00 AM - 03:30 PM

Friday, Jan. 19

City Hall

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4099 Orange Beach Blvd
Orange Beach, AL 36561

10 mi 11:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Monday, Jan. 22

Gulf Shores Middle School

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450 East 15th Avenue
Gulf Shores, AL 36542

7.7 mi 09:00 AM - 01:00 PM