The American Red Cross continues to have an urgent need for blood and platelet donations, even as thousands of people answered the urgent call to donate last month, according to the Red Cross's local blood supply executive.

Red Cross blood clinics are scheduled Thursday in Ogdensburg and Aug. 28 in Parishville.

“The Red Cross is grateful for those who stepped up to give this lifesaving gift and reminds eligible donors that hospital patients are still counting on them to roll up a sleeve,” said Kay E. Schwartz, CEO for the Red Cross New York-Penn Blood Service Region. “As summer draws to a close, you still have the chance to give hope to patients in need.”

Through the end of July, the Red Cross saw an increase of approximately 7.5 percent in the number of donors coming to give blood, beyond what was anticipated. Despite the increase, blood products are being distributed to hospitals as quickly as donations are coming in, maintaining the urgent need.

To prevent a shortage and ensure an adequate blood supply for patients the rest of the summer, the Red Cross especially needs platelet donors and those with types O negative, B negative and A negative blood.

Donors can give blood Aug. 21, 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Hepburn Medical Center, 214 King St., Ogdensburg, and Aug. 28, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Parishville Fire Department Bingo Hall, 25 Rutman Rd.

Otherwise, you may call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information.