American Red Cross encourages blood donations during National Wellness Month

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — The American Red Cross is urging people to prioritize their health and well-being while helping save lives by donating blood or platelets in August.

Donors of all blood types, especially those with type O positive or B negative blood, are needed to prevent a decline in donor turnout. In August, the Red Cross will provide free A1C screening for successful donors, which can help screen for prediabetes and diabetes.

Donors will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice for donations made between Aug. 1-28. To schedule a donation, visit (link unavailable), call 1-800-RED CROSS, or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities are available in various locations, including Cape Girardeau, Jackson, and surrounding areas. A complete list of donation sites and times can be found at Donate Blood, Platelets or Plasma. Give Life | Red Cross Blood.

To be eligible to donate blood, individuals must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in generally good health.