A simple act that takes an hour could help save a life. That’s the message from the American Red Cross as it works to address an emergency blood shortage.

Officials say fewer donations are coming in at a time when hospitals continue to depend on a steady blood supply every day.

Now, they’re asking eligible donors to make an appointment and help close the gap.

Nate Russell, American Red Cross Regional Communications Manager, says the blood supply has fallen to its lowest level for this time of year since 2015, leaving hospitals with few units available to meet patients’ ongoing needs.

If you’ve been thinking about donating, now may be the time.

Several blood drives are coming up across the area, making it easy for local residents to answer the Red Cross’s call for help. In Madison, the “All American Blood Drive” is scheduled for August 3rd and 4th. 

The drive will run from 7:30am to 10:30 am, and again from noon to 3pm each day.