NATIONWIDE — The American Red Cross urges people to leave a lasting impact by giving blood or platelets now. Donors of all blood types, especially those with type O blood, are needed to keep the blood supply steady ahead of the holiday rush.

Keeping blood and platelet donation appointments on the books is crucial to ensuring hospitals have the tools they need to care for patients this fall, the Red Cross said. Visit www.RedCrossBlood.org/Maze for details.

“Get into the spirit of saving lives.” Visit www.RedCrossBlood.org, call 1/800-RED CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App to schedule a donation appointment.