The press release from the American Red Cross calls the need for blood donations “urgent,” as hospitals begin scheduling surgeries and other procedures put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In recent weeks, hospital demand for blood products has grown by 30-percent after sharply declining in early April amid this rapidly changing and complex public health crisis. At the same time, blood drives continue to be canceled as many businesses and community organizations remain closed. Donors are needed to make and keep scheduled appointments to help meet the current need.

But in Richmond Hill, area residents will have the opportunity to give blood during a drive on Monday, June 8, from 2 to 7 p.m. at J.F. Gregory Park, 240 Cedar Street.

Thanks to Amazon, all those who come to give June 1-30 will receive a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card via email.

“Blood donors have played a vital role in the lives of patients who have needed lifesaving transfusions during this pandemic, and patients continue to depend on donors each and every day,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president, Red Cross Blood Services. “The Red Cross appreciates the support of those who rolled up a sleeve to give in recent months, but the need doesn’t stop. We need the public’s help to avoid another blood shortage this summer.”

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to ensure the health of all those in attendance, according to a press release.

Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public guidance.