DEDHAM, Mass. – The American Red Cross is facing a shortage of approximately 2,000 units of blood and platelets across the Northeast. Coming off of a challenging month in July, the Red Cross has been forced to cut shipments of blood products to area hospitals.

“Due to the heat-related cancellation of blood drives coupled with the shortage of approximately 2,000 units of blood and platelets, the American Red Cross is urging all who are eligible to please make an appointment to donate blood in an effort to replenish the blood supply,” said Donna M. Morrissey, director of public relations and corporate affairs for the American Red Cross Blood Services – Northeast Division. “All blood types are currently needed, as we currently have less than a one-day supply of blood.”

To find out where to donate, the public are asked to call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit www.newenglandblood.org.

To donate blood through the American Red Cross, a person must be at least age 17, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in general good health. Positive ID is required at the time of donation.