Central Minnesotans are encouraged to donate blood as American Red Cross is facing a shortage of different blood types.

Communication manager for the Red Cross North Central Blood Services Region, Sue Thesenga, says people with blood type O, B and A negative are asked to donate now to prevent an emergency situation.

Reports show Red Cross received about 1,735 fewer donations in June and July than the past ten months. Blood type O negative can be transferred to any patient in need. Red Cross adds people can donate double red cells in a different process too. Patients are also in need of platelets and those with type AB are encouraged to donate to save more lives.

Blood Donation appointments can be made via Red Cross Blood Donor Application.