The American Red Cross is asking all eligible, healthy blood donors to make and keep appointments to donate blood in the coming weeks. As the cold and flu season approaches, the Red Cross hopes to maintain a stable supply of blood to meet hospital needs. Blood donors who have received the seasonal flu shot are still eligible to donate blood if they are feeling well on the day of the donation.

The Red Cross is giving everyone who comes in to donate blood from Oct. 21 through Oct. 31 a free Red Cross reusable tote bag. To make an appointment, donors are asked to call 1-800-GIVE LIFE (800-448-3543) or visit online givelife.org.

Blood donors are always needed, as each donation has the potential to save up to three lives. Red blood cells help people with severe trauma injuries and chronic anemia. Platelets benefit cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and plasma helps burn victims and patients with critical diseases.