The American Red Cross is asking that people of all races and ethnicities give blood to help ensure a diverse blood supply for patients in need.

Upcoming donation opportunities in the area include a drive from 2 to 7 p.m. Sept. 18 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 605 S. Walnut St., Seymour, and from 1 to 6 p.m. Sept. 26 at First United Methodist Church, 240 Poplar St., North Vernon.

The vast majority of blood types fall into one of the major ABO groups. Some blood types, however, are unique to certain racial and ethnic groups, so a diverse blood supply is important to meeting the medical needs of an increasingly diverse patient population, according to a news release from the Red Cross.

All blood types are needed to ensure the right blood product is available at the right time for all patients. Make an appointment to donate blood by downloading the free American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 800-733-2767.

As a thank-you, those who come to donate blood or platelets through Sept. 30 will receive a coupon via email for a free haircut at participating Sport Clips locations. Information is available at redcrossblood.org/sport-clips.

For information, visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org.