The need for blood and platelet donations is being described as “urgent” by the American Red Cross. Blood drives are being scheduled around the country and around the area to prevent a blood shortage for the remainder of the winter.

Blood drives can be found Monday at the Christian Church in Elkville, Tuesday at Tri-C Elementary in Carterville, and on Wednesday in Herrin at the Church of Christ and in Marion at Crab Orchard High School.

Other blood drives are being scheduled around the area for later dates. Visit redcrossblood.org for more information.