AUBURN – An American Red Cross blood drive will be held Saturday, Aug. 23, in the Auburn Plaza Shopping complex, at the Auburn Church of God on Center Street.

Donor hours are from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

There is a serious blood shortage in this area and the American Red Cross’ Blood Services is urging all eligible blood donors to give blood in anticipation of the upcoming Labor Day holiday. Blood supplies have been steadily declining over the summer months and reserves of all types need to be dramatically increased in order to meet the needs of patients, according to Red Cross representative Eric Lynes.

Donors are encouraged to call the American Red Cross at 1-800-482-0743 to provide time of arrival to help limit waiting time. Additionally, all donors will receive a Save-A-Life summer T-shirt.

Potential blood donors need to be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health. Most medications do not defer people from donating blood.