The next Red Cross blood drive will take place on Nov. 27 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Hood River Elks Lodge, Third and Cascade. Download the American Red Cross Blood Donor app, visit redcrossblood.org (sponsor code: HoodRiver) or call Margo Parker at 541-387-3669 to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients.

Donated blood is a lifesaving gift, one most healthy people can give. But even healthy people are sometimes temporarily deferred from donating due to low hemoglobin, which is often caused by low blood iron levels.