Bad weather across the country, combined with the recent holidays, has seen the American Red Cross struggling to get its blood supplies back to normal levels. Blood has remained in short supply for several weeks and residents in Escalon will have the opportunity to add to the supply this coming week.

An Escalon Community Blood Drive will be hosted on Tuesday, Feb. 11 at the Christian Reformed Church, 2203 California St., running from 1:15 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Contact Debbie Veenstra at 209-606-4244 to make an appointment or go online at: redcrossblood.org and use the Sponsor Code: Escalon to make an appointment.

One donation can help save up to three lives.

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

The donation process typically takes about an hour, including a brief health screening, the donation and a rest period with refreshments after the donation.