The American Red Cross is calling on donors to give blood this spring as shifting routines and seasonal travel threaten to disrupt the nation’s blood supply.

With warmer weather, outdoor activities and vacations increasing, donation patterns often decline. Even small changes in routine can quickly reduce available blood products, creating challenges for hospitals and transfusion centers that rely on steady donations to treat patients.

The organization is encouraging donors of all blood types, including first-time donors, to schedule appointments in the coming days and weeks to help maintain a stable supply.

Those who donate between May 1 and May 17 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email, made possible through a partnership with Amazon. More information is available at www.RedCrossBlood.org/Amazon.

Appointments can be made by visiting www.RedCrossBlood.org, calling (800) 733-2767 or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Baldwin County include:

ORANGE BEACH

May 15: 1 p.m.-6:30 p.m., Orange Beach Adult Fitness Center, 4847 Wilson Boulevard

STOCKTON

May 11: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Stockton Civic Club, 53998 AL-59

SUMMERDALE

May 7: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Summerdale School, 400 E. Broadway Avenue

May 13: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Summerdale Church of Christ, 1070 State Highway 59 S.

Blood donations are critical for a range of medical needs, including emergency care, surgeries, cancer treatments and chronic illnesses. Red Cross officials stress that consistent donor participation is key to ensuring lifesaving blood is available when and where it is needed.