Movie tickets, umbrellas available to blood donors in Marion County this month

This July, the American Red Cross continues to stress blood and platelet donors are critically needed to support lifesaving transfusions this summer. Donors of all blood types are in demand, especially those with type O blood and donors giving platelets.

Here are the blood drives scheduled in Marion:

• Thursday, 1-7 p.m., The Alber Red Cross Center, 1849 Summerset Drive,
• Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., The Alber Red Cross Center, 1849 Summerset Drive
• July 26, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., The Alber Red Cross Center, 1849 Summerset Drive
• July 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., The Alber Red Cross Center, 1849 Summerset Drive
• July 31, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Marion Chamber of Commerce, 267 W. Center St.

Book a time to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

The Red Cross has teamed with Universal Pictures for the theatrical release of "Twisters" to help avoid a summer blood shortage. All who give blood or platelets through July 31 will get a Fandango movie ticket by email. Those who to give by July 14 also will receive a "Twisters" and Red Cross umbrella, while supplies last. Anyone who who gives blood in July will automatically be entered for a chance to win a 2025 Ram 1500 Big Horn.