The American Red Cross encourages eligible blood donors to start a lifesaving habit by becoming a regular blood donor this year, starting with National Blood Donor Month in January.

January is a challenging time for blood donations. Inclement weather can result in blood drive cancellations, and cold and flu season may cause some donors to be unable to make or keep blood donation appointments. National Blood Donor Month, celebrated in January since 1970, raises awareness of the need for blood during the winter and throughout the year, while honoring those who roll up a sleeve to help patients in need.

To celebrate National Blood Donor Month, the Red Cross and Dunkin’ Donuts are launching a new campaign to help increase donations and reward generous donors. Through the new “Dunkin’ Donors Make a Difference” campaign, all those who come to give blood or platelets in January at Red Cross blood drives in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont and parts of New York will receive a $5 Dunkin’ Donor Card.

Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative and B negative. Type O negative is the universal blood type and can be transfused to patients with any blood type. Types A and B negative can be transfused to Rh positive or negative patients.

Locally this month, a blood drive will be held from 1-6 p.m. on Jan. 19 at Orchard Trails, 4 Empire Drive, Orono.

To learn more about donating blood and to schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).