The American Red Cross is asking Northwest Georgia residents to roll up their sleeves this September as the organization works to protect the nation’s blood supply heading into fall.

Red Cross officials say the blood supply remains vulnerable after recovering from critically low levels during a summer blood shortage. Changes in routines and increasingly busy fall schedules often result in fewer people making time to donate, even though hospitals continue to need blood products every day.

Donors of all blood types are being encouraged to schedule an appointment.

Several blood drives are planned across Northwest Georgia during September. Upcoming opportunities include:

  • Wednesday, September 9: First Presbyterian Church Cartersville Fellowship Hall, 183 West Main Street in Cartersville, from 1 until 6 PM.
  • Thursday, September 17: Berry College Krannert Center, 2277 Martha Berry Boulevard in Mount Berry, from 2 until 7 PM.
  • Thursday, September 17: Rockmart Community/First Baptist Church, 311 East Elm Street in Rockmart, from 12:30 until 6:30 PM.
  • Wednesday, September 23: Sonoraville High School, 7340 Fairmount Highway Southeast in Calhoun, from 9 AM until 2 PM.
  • Saturday, September 26: Kelsy-Adcock-Burrell Center, 41 Washington Drive Southeast in Rome, from 9 AM until 2 PM.
  • Monday, September 28: Adairsville Church on the Square, 102 South Main Street in Adairsville, from 1 until 6 PM.
  • Tuesday, September 29: Cartersville Civic Center, 435 West Main Street, from noon until 5:30 PM.
  • Wednesday, September 30: Gordon Central High School, 335 Warrior Path Northeast in Calhoun, from 9 AM until 2 PM.

September also marks an opportunity for the Red Cross to recognize the legacy of Dr. Charles R. Drew, who was appointed the first medical director of the Red Cross Blood Program 85 years ago. The Red Cross will release a short documentary, Iconic Excellence, about Drew’s life and contributions on September 18.

People who donate through September 20 can receive a Red Cross and Hello Kitty plush mascot clip and surprise sticker pack while supplies last. Those donating September 21 through October 18 will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice.

Appointments can be scheduled at RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).