Give Blood, Get A $20 Amazon Gift Card In Mission Viejo

MISSION VIEJO, CA — While the grip of the winter season remains tight on the country, the American Red Cross' need for donated blood remains the same — especially amid a worsening nationwide blood shortage.

The American Red Cross is hosting a slew of blood drives across Orange County and offering incentives for residents who donate blood through February.

According to the American Red Cross, residents who donate this month will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email. Appointments can be made by visiting the Red Cross' website.

"As February continues, so does the potential for additional weather systems to disrupt blood drives and the ability to provide critical blood products to hospitals," an American Red Cross news release said. "While thousands of donors have answered the call to donate in recent weeks to combat a significant drop in the blood supply, more donors are needed now to ensure the blood supply remains ready for those in need of lifesaving medical procedures."

In Mission Viejo, residents can donate blood at the following drives:

• Feb. 16 — 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Bagels & Brew, 23052 A Alicia Parkway.
• Feb. 29 — 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Elk's Lodge, 25092 Marguerite Parkway.

To find more blood drives in your area, visit the American Red Cross' website.