As spring approaches, the American Red Cross urges donors to give blood or platelets now to continue to strengthen the national blood supply.

People of all blood types — especially those with type O blood — are critical to ensuring hospitals can meet the daily demand for lifesaving transfusions.

During Red Cross Month in March, the Red Cross celebrates the volunteers and blood and platelet donors who are critical to ensuring those in need receive relief and care.

Help can’t wait — to book a time to give, visit RedCrossBlood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 800-RED CROSS. As a thank-you, all who come to give by March 24 will receive a $10 e-gift card to a pet supply merchant of choice, plus a chance to win one of five $3,000 gift cards. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Pets for details.

Locally blood drives are planned from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. March 28 at First Baptist Church, 505 Community Drive, Seymour; from 1 to 6 p.m. March 18 at Saint Paul Lutheran Church Borchers, 10792 N. County Road 210E, Seymour; and from 1 to 6 p.m. March at First United Methodist Church, 240 W. Poplar St., North Vernon.

Additionally, the Red Cross is teaming up with Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures to celebrate the epic new film, Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, and to invite donors to rise together and give blood. When donors share their strength by giving March 25-April 7, they’ll get an exclusive Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire and Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last. © 2024 Legendary and Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved GODZILLA TM & © TOHO CO. Ltd.