The American Red Cross has issued an emergency call for blood and platelet donations to overcome a critical blood shortage.

On Tuesday, August 1 from 2 to 7 p.m., the American Red Cross bloodmobile will be at the Bellingham Community Center.

Regular blood donors are welcome and encouraged to walk in and donate. Power red donation, formerly double reds, appointments can be scheduled by calling Audrey at 320-568-2385.

To save time during your blood donation, RapidPass allows a donor to read through the pre-donations materials, answer health history questions and print, download or email your RapidPass to yourself and bring it with you to your blood donation appointment. RapidPass can be found at redcrossblood.org/rapidpass.

Every donor will receive a gift for donating and will have their name placed into a drawing for gifts from local Bellingham businesses. Students and first-time donors will also be eligible for a second drawing of a $25 gas card donated by the Bellingham Farmers Elevator.