The Fourth of July is a time for family fun and patriotic celebrations, but for the Red Cross, it’s one of the most challenging times for blood donations. Cumulus Radio Stations are teaming up with The Red Cross to encourage people to give blood before the holiday weekend during our Inaugural “Cumulus Cares” Blood Drive Thursday July 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Tower Building next to our studios at Gervais and Sumter streets.

By making a commitment to give blood, donors can make a lifesaving difference for patients this summer. When you give blood, you can help save lives right here in the Midlands! Potentially lifesaving blood products can only come from volunteer blood donors like YOU! Donors will be able to give blood July 2 on the bloodmobile and inside IT-oLogy’s first-floor meeting space across from our studios at 1301 Gervais St.

As a thank you for giving blood, presenting donors at the “Cumulus Cares” blood drive will receive a Red Cross baseball hat, while supplies last. Those who come to give can also enter to win concert tickets from Cumulus as well!

For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-722-2767) or download the Red Cross Blood Donor App. But remember, Walk-ins are welcome!!

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.