ROANOKE, Va. – The American Red Cross is asking for more people to donate blood this summer.
Officials say this time of year, blood donations usually start to slow down.
This reportedly happens because of school being out and more people are spending time traveling.
To encourage donations, the American Red Cross is offering incentives like a $15 gift card and a chance to win a trip to New York.
“We are having to send more blood to the hospitals in the month of July we are receiving donations, so such a bad time for us. Because people are traveling there are a lot of car accidents and traumatic injuries,” said Jackie Grant, executive director of the American Red Cross’s Southwest Chapter.
The Roanoke location is also being upgraded to create a more comfortable, modern space for people to donate blood.