Because of severe winter weather across the U.S. and an influenza outbreak, the American Red Cross has reissued an emergency plea for blood and platelet donations. During the month of January, snow, ice and cold temperatures resulted in more than 14,000 fewer donations, resulting in blood donations being distributed to hospitals faster than they are coming in.

You have an opportunity to donate at the American Red Cross blood drive at First Mennonite Church, Bluffton, on Thursday, Feb. 7, from 1-6 p.m. 

To schedule your blood donation appointment, call 1-800-RED-CROSS or go to redcrossblood.org, sponsor code “fmenncbl.”

Soup, sandwiches and cookies will be available for donors.

First Mennonite is located at 101 S. Jackson St., Bluffton. Donors should enter by the Jackson Street entrance directly across from Bluffton Elementary School. An elevator is located at that entrance.