Donate Urgently Needed Blood, Get A Free Haircut In RSM

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — As Rancho Santa Margarita residents near into the fall, the American Red Cross reported a dire need for blood after a summer of decreased donor turnout.

"Hurricane Idalia forced dozens of blood drive cancellations, compounding the shortage. Right now, the Red Cross is distributing blood products to hospitals faster than blood donations are coming in and we’ve had to reduce distributions of some of the most needed blood products in recent weeks," Red Cross Representative Christine Welch wrote in a news release.

According to the Red Cross, the organization is counting on the public to help recover from a 30,000 blood and platelet donation shortfall in August.

In Rancho Santa Margarita, residents who donate blood through September will receive a coupon for a free haircut by email, courtesy of Sports Clips.

In addition, residents who donate blood through Sept. 18 will receive a limited edition Red Cross t-shirt.

Rancho Santa Margarita residents can schedule to make an appointment to donate blood here.:

• Sept. 19, 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., the Bell Tower Regional Community Center, 22232 El Paseo.
• Sept. 28, 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Monte Vista Park, 21726 Buena Suerte.