The American Red Cross urges individuals to give blood and platelets now and help end an emergency summer blood shortage that began last month. Type O is especially needed.

Individuals donating blood or platelets now through Aug. 30, 2018, will be eligible to receive an Amazon.com gift card via email. Restrictions apply; see amazon.com/gc-legal. Information and details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Together.

The opportunity is available in Northampton County, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 16 at American Legion Post No. 611, 429 S. 16th St., Easton; and in Lehigh County, from 1 to 6 p.m. Aug. 17 at the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley, 3939 Broadway, Allentown.

To make an appointment, download the free American Red Cross blood donor app, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).