Blood Urgently Needed Amid National Crisis: Drives In Laguna Beach

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — As the seasons change and August turns to September, the American Red Cross continues to experience a national blood emergency as a result of Hurricane Debby and other severe weather events across the country.

According to the American Red Cross, weather in recent weeks has added to the summer shortfall in donations by forcing the cancellation of roughly 60 blood drives throughout the country, many of which were caused by Debby.

This resulted in approximately 1,500 lifesaving blood products to go uncollected, officials said.

To encourage residents to give blood, the American Red Cross will reward donations made from Sept. 1 through Sept. 15 with an exclusive Red Cross raglan T-shirt while supplies last. Residents who donate before the end of August will receive a free $20 Amazon gift card.

In and around Laguna Beach, residents can make appointments at the following blood drives:

• Aug. 28 — Newport Beach Police Department, 870 Santa Barbara, Newport Beach.
• Aug. 29 — Elk's Lodge, 25092 Marguerite Pkwy., Mission Viejo.
• Sept. 3 — Monarch Bay Plaza, 32932 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point.
• Sept. 11 — St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, 3233 Pacific View Dr., Corona Del Mar.

For a full run-down on blood drives near you, visit the American Red Cross' website.