The American Red Cross has issued an emergency call for blood and platelets, urging all eligible donors to give now to replenish an extremely low summer blood supply.  "Right now, blood products are being distributed to hospitals faster than donations are coming in, which is why we are making this emergency request for donations," said Todd Kulman, External Communications Manager of the Great Lakes Blood Services Region.  "Donations are urgently needed now to meet the needs of hospital patients in the coming days and weeks.  If you've thought about giving blood and helping to save lives, now is the time to do it.  It's the blood donations on the shelves that help save lives when an emergency occurs."  To schedule an appointment to doante, use the free Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.  The Red Cross is extending hours at many donation sites to allow for more donors to make an appointment and give.  Upcoming Blood Donation Opportunities: 

July 7th in Nashville, 12pm -5:45pm, Grace Community Church,8950 East M-79hwy.

July 12th 12pm -5:45pm at Ionia Center, 250 E. Tuttle, July 18th at 10am-3:45pm Ionia Fairgrounds, 317 s. Dexter Street.  July 25th 12:30-6:15pm Saranac, St. Anthony's Church 3070 David Hwy.