ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — All across the country, the shortage of blood is becoming a major issue as supplies decline, yet demand is increasing.

With the Independence Day weekend approaching, the American Red Cross is preparing for the most critical blood shortage month of the year — July.

Columbia Southern University will be joining forces with the ARC on July 1 to host the first Red, White and Give Blood Drive.

CSU and ARC are encouraging everyone to be part of this life saving initiative from 1 until 6 p.m. at the new SCU facility just off the Foley Beach Express and two miles South of County Road 12.

“Summer is a tough time for the blood supply and those whose very lives depend on it,” said Evan Duffy, Communications Manager for the American Red Cross. “Those who take an hour to give a unit of blood are heroes in the most real sense of the word.”

“Supporting organizations that improve the quality of life is our way of demonstrating our commitment to the Baldwin County community,” said Robert Mayes, CSU president. “Whether that means providing volunteer hours, getting involved in community events, or donating resources, we work hard to fulfill our corporate responsibility.”

Eligible donors must be 17-years-of-age or older; weigh at least 110 pounds; and be in good health. The blood donation process takes approximately one hour.

More than 38,000 blood donations are needed each day in the U.S. One donation can help save the lives of uup to three people.

The ARC will be on site with a collections bus for fast and easy donating. Blood donations will also be accepted in the first floor CSU classroom. Each donor will be entered into a regional ARC drawing for a $1,000 gas card and will receive a Waffle House coupon for a free waffle.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments can also be scheduled by contacting Katie Miller, CSU Communication Specialist 1-800-977-8449 extension 158.