Donate Blood, Get A $20 Gift Card April: RSM Blood Drives

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — While summer vacation is in full swing, the American Red Cross's need for blood remains the same. Donors of all blood types — especially type O blood donors and those giving platelets — are needed to keep the blood supply strong enough to support critical patient care this summer.

"The Red Cross depends on thousands of volunteer blood donors to collect about 12,000 blood donations every single day," the Red Cross said in a statement. "With no substitute for blood and no way to manufacture it, volunteer donors are essential in transfusion care."

To help get potential donors in a giving mood, the Red Cross will be offering a $20 Amazon gift card.

In Rancho Santa Margarita, residents can book an appointment through the Red Cross's website.

Here are some upcoming blood drives happening near you:

• Aug. 5 — 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Ladera Ranch Oak Knoll, 28192 O'Neill Drive.
• Aug. 13 — 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Coto de Caza Golf & Racquet Club, 25291 Vista del Verde.