American Red Cross declares an emergency blood shortage, heres where to donate [Video]

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. (WBKO) – The American Red Cross’s national blood supply has dropped 25 percent since July 1, according to a press release.

The nonprofit is offering a $20 Amazon gift card by email for those who come to donate at one of the locations in August. Specifically, type O blood is in low supply.

“It’s critical hospitals have both type O positive and O negative blood ready to go for patients in the most life-threatening situations,” said Dr. Eric Gehrie, Executive Physician Director for the Red Cross. “Type O is especially important for victims of accidents and other trauma who are receiving emergency treatment. Now is the time for donors of all blood types to give and ensure hospital shelves can be restocked before any impact to patient care.”

The heat has impacted more than 100 blood drives in nearly every state where the American Red Cross collects …