(File Photo of the American Red Cross logo)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) The American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania is asking people to donate either platelets or blood through the middle of summer. Type O blood is needed the most. Everyone who givesfrom July 1st-14, will get an exclusive pair of sunglasses with the Red Cross and goodr brands on them. Those who give by June 30th will get an email of a $15 Amazon gift card and be entered to win one of two gift cards worth $7,000. You can visit redcross.org for more information.

According to a release from the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania, you can make an appointment by choosing one of these options and they also provide some things to remember when donating blood: You can visit RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.