There is a critical shortage of blood throughout the country. The American Red Cross is giving out gift card incentives to raise blood donations. According to WKBW.com, the American Red Cross is hoping that an Amazon gift card will be an incentive to raise the levels of blood donations. In particular, the Red Cross is looking for type O blood. This type is at critically low levels. There is less than a two day supply in emergency rooms. This is where blood donations are needed the most.

Only seven percent of the population has type O negative blood. If hospital staff doesn't have the time to determine which blood type the patient is, they can use this blood type. Type O positive blood is used in trauma situations and the most transfused blood type.

If you are willing to donate blood or platelets now through June 10th, you will receive a five dollar Amazon.com gift card through your email.

To see if there is a blood drive near you, click HERE.

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