(WTAJ) — As fall begins, the American Red Cross is urging people to make blood and platelet donations a priority to help ensure hospitals have the supply they need.

The organization says donors of all blood types are needed, especially type O positive and B negative. Every donation helps patients who rely on transfusions, including accident victims, cancer patients, and those living with sickle cell disease.

Those who donate blood, platelets or plasma between Sept. 22 and Oct. 19 will receive a $10 Amazon.com gift card by email as an added thank-you. Appointments can be scheduled at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or through the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Eligible donors must be at least 17 years old (or at least 16 years old with parental consent), weigh 110 pounds or mo

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