The American Red Cross called an “emergency blood shortage” in early July. Officials are urging eligible donors of all blood types to give blood or platelets as soon as possible.

Luckily, there are donation locations and times available close to home for the next few weeks. On Wednesday, Aug. 2, the Oakdale Fire Station (Stanislaus Consolidated Station #28) at 325 E. G St. will take walk-ins and appointments from noon to 6 p.m.; donors will receive a $5 Target eGiftCard for their donation.

On Tuesday, Aug. 8, the Christian Reformed Church at 2203 California St., Escalon, will welcome donors from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Midway through the month, Monday, Aug. 14, Fire Station #26 at 3318 Topeka St., Riverbank, will also be taking walk-ins and appointments from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Call Lis Garcia at 209-235-9973 to make an appointment.

All of these locations will take blood donations. For blood and platelet donations, the Modesto Blood Donation Center at 1900 W Orangeburg Ave. welcomes donors at varying times all week, every week.

More times, locations, and information can be found at redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).