SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY — The American Red Cross continues to see a concerning trend—blood donations are being sent to hospitals faster than they are coming in. 

The Red Cross has collected about 50,000 fewer blood donations than needed over the last two months. Donors are asked to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now to avoid a looming shortage. 

To help head off a more serious situation, the Red Cross is teaming up with Warner Bros. Discovery for the 35th anniversary of Shark Week and the theatrical release of “Meg 2: The Trench.” The public is  encouraged to celebrate a summer of sharks and help shore up the national blood supply by giving in July.  

Those who give blood or platelets before August 12 will be automatically entered for a chance to win a three-night getaway with private shark-dive adventure at Long Island Aquarium. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Shark. 

Until July 31, donors who show up to give blood or platelets will receive an official, licensed Shark Week T-shirt while supplis last. The donors will also be entered to win a private shark-dive adventure.

To schedule an appointment to donate, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 800/733-2767.

Sullivan County blood donation opportunities 

Lake Huntington 

7/25: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Cochecton Volunteer Ambulance, 70 County Road 116 

Livingston Manor 

7/28: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Livingston Manor Fire House, 93 Main St. 

Monticello 

7/19: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., St. Peters Parish, Bingo Hall, 59 North St. 

Rock Hill 

7/13: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Rock Hill Firehouse, 61 Glen Wild Rd. 

Woodbourne 

7/18: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Woodbourne Firehouse, 355 Route 52