Upcoming American Red Cross blood drives announced

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

Every donation counts in the mission to keep blood products stocked for patients, including those facing life-threatening situations. More than a quarter of all blood products each year are used in critical care and emergency room cases, highlighting the importance of generous blood and platelet donors. Be a force for good. 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 up with Universal Pictures for the theatrical release of "Twisters" to help avoid a summer blood shortage. All who come to give blood or platelets July 1-31 will get a Fandango movie ticket by email. Plus, those who come to give by July 14 will also receive a one-of-a-kind "Twisters" and Red Cross umbrella, while supplies last.

As a bonus, those who give blood in July will also automatically be entered for a chance to win a 2025 Ram 1500 Big HOrn. See RedCrossBlood.org/Twisters for full details.

Upcoming blood drives in Barron County include the following:

• July 11: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Elks Lodge 1441, 36 E. Eau Claire St., Rice Lake.

• July 16: Noon to 6 p.m., American Legion, 1225 Veterans St., Cumberland.

• July 17: Noon to 6 p.m., Grace Community Church, 40 125th Ave., Turtle Lake.

• July 29: Noon to 6 p.m., Community Center, 115 N. River Ave., Prairie Farm.

• July 31-Aug. 1: Noon to 6 p.m. Bethany Lutheran Church, 35 W. Messenger St., Rice Lake.

• Aug. 6: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 1121 Nunn Ave., Rice Lake.