JONESBORO, Ark. (Aug 27, 2018) - During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September, the American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to give blood to support kids, teens & young adults battling cancer, as well as others in need of transfusions.

Blood & platelet donors of all blood types, especially type O negative & O positive, are urgently needed to replenish the blood supply following a critical summer blood shortage. As a thank-you, those who come to give blood or platelets Aug 31-Sept 4 will receive a Red Cross aluminum water bottle, while supplies last.

Those who come out to give blood or platelets September 1-30 will receive a coupon for a free haircut via email several days after their donation. The coupon is valid through November 11, 2018 at participating Sport Clips locations. Donors must have a valid email address on record to receive the coupon.

Make an appointment to donate by downloading the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Area blood drives through 9/15/18:

Greene County

Paragould

• 9/28/18:  10am-4pm, First National Bank, 200 West Court Street

Craighead County

Jonesboro

• 9/18/18:  12pm-4pm, Arkansas State University, 2105 Aggie Road
• 9/19/18:  12pm-4pm, Arkansas State University, 2105 Aggie Road
• 9/19/18:  10am-2pm, Rural Sourcing, 411 Union Street
• 9/28/18:  12pm-4pm, American Red Cross Chapter JB, 2416 South Madison Street
• Visit RedCross.org to set up an appointment at the Jonesboro Blood Donation Center or to see their operating hours for walk-ins

Clay County

Piggott

• 9/20/18:  12pm-4pm, First National Bank, 635 East Main Street

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) 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 (16 with parental consent in some states), 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.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.