The United States is currently experiencing a blood crisis. American Red Cross is saying the situation is “dire.” Every day, blood donors help patients of all ages: accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, and those battling cancer. In fact, every two seconds, someone in the US needs blood.

The next blood drive in Newtown is scheduled for Tuesday, August 25 at Newtown Congregational Church, 14 West Street. The drive runs from 9 am-5 pm. All type O blood types are needed right now.

Those who wish to sign up to donate can do so now by going to redcrossblood.org. Click “Find a Blood Drive” and type in Newtown’s zip code, 06470. Participants can save time by filling out paperwork at redcrossblood.org/rapidpass.

People who sign up to donate blood in August will receive an Amazon gift card as a thanks.