Early bird shoppers save 30-percent. Half-off sale starts today. Buy one, get one free ends Saturday.

‘Tis the season and everyone’s searching for the perfect gift that doesn’t break the bank. The more money saved, the more there is to spend. Still, many of us struggle to find the perfect gift.

Officials of the American Red Cross, Greater Alleghenies Region Blood Services ask area residents: What if, for just one day, you forget the sales and choose to save a life instead?

John Hagins, CEO explained, “Donating blood helps save up to three lives and the only cost is an hour of your time. Now, that’s a deal everyone can appreciate!”

He explained that every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion, adding that these needs continue day and night, 365 days a year, holidays included. On average nearly 1,000 individuals need to come forward to donate blood within the 100-county Greater Alleghenies Region each weekday to help meet the needs of patients.

Currently individuals of all blood types are needed to donate blood to help boost supplies during the holiday season.

Hagins commented, “So, as you flip through circulars and scan retail web sites, take a moment to log on to redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS and make an appointment to give blood.

“Your blood donation this holiday season is the perfect gift…the gift that saves the day. Give life. Your heart, your wallet and countless hospital patients across the country thank you!”

How to Donate Blood:

Call 1-800-RED CROSS or log on to www.redcrossblood.org for more information or to schedule a blood donation appointment. All blood types are needed to ensure the Red Cross maintains an adequate blood supply. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be in general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old (16 with completed Parental Consent Form). New height and weight restrictions apply to donors younger than 19. Visit redcrossblood.org to learn more.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

Cheryl L. Gergely is the program Manager of Communications with the American Red Cross, Greater Alleghenies Region.