The American Red Cross continues to experience a severe blood shortage as winter weather further impacts the ability to rebuild the blood supply. Eligible individuals are urged to give blood and platelets as soon as it is safe for them to travel to help ensure lifesaving medical procedures are not delayed. The latest storm, which impacted half the U.S. population, forced blood drives to cancel in nearly every state where the Red Cross collects blood. Over 500 blood drives have been canceled in recent days, resulting in about 15,000 blood and platelet donations going uncollected. More cancellations are expected as extreme cold and storm threats remain in place for many areas. There's no time to wait — donors of all blood types and those giving platelets are asked to make an appointment to donate now. Those who come to give now through Feb. 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of choice. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Heart. Go to www.redcrossblood.org, and enter sponsor code rf to make your appointment.