PORTLAND — The American Red Cross encourages eligible donors to make an appointment to give blood and help save lives in honor of World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day.

Each year, the local and global impact of the Red Cross mission is celebrated on May 8, the birthday of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement founder Henri Dunant.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities include:

Topsham: 1 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 4, ARC Mid Coast Chapter, 16 Community Way.

Harrison: 1 to 6 p.m. Thursday, May 12, United Parish Congregational Church of Harrison and North Bridgton, 77 Main St.

Every day, the Red Cross must collect approximately 14,000 blood donations to meet the needs of patients across the country. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card, driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

FMI, appointment: redcrossblood.org, 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), cruzrojaamericana.org.