The Portland Business group is hosting a blood drive for the American Red Cross at One City Center in Portland until 3p. today. Visit redcrossblood.org to find a blood drive near you.

During the holidays, blood donations drop because people are traveling, colleges that usually hold drives are empty, holiday activities keep regular donors busy and severe weather can cause drive cancellations. For all of these reasons, it's important to donate blood as often as you can this time of year. The Red Cross is facing a severe shortage and desperately need blood and platelet donors. They also need volunteer drive hosts.

Blood and platelets are needed daily for ongoing cancer treatments as well as trauma and surgeries. To encourage and reward donations during the holidays, those donating blood or platelets through the Red Cross from Nov. 21-24 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt while supplies last.

All blood types are needed, especially type O. Make an appointment to donate through the very cool Donor App, by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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