In August, donating blood or platelets will not only save lives, but also enable a lucky donor to "buy a lot" with a $1,000 shopping card.

All participants at American Red Cross blood or platelet drives during August can register to win a $1,000 shopping card which can be used at a variety of stores and restaurants. One card will be awarded, and participants can register for a chance to win every time they donate.

"This is a critical time of year for blood and platelet donations," said Robert F. Fechner, CEO of the American Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region. "A number of blood types are in short supply and every donation is very important to us and to hospital patients. This shopping card is one way we can show generous donors how much we appreciate their gift of life."

While donors of all blood types are welcome, there is currently an urgent need for donors with Type O positive, O negative, B positive and B negative. There is on average just a day's supply of each type available.

The American Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region must have 1,600 people give blood and platelets each weekday to meet hospital demand. Accident victims as well as patients with cancer, sickle cell anemia, blood disorders, and other illnesses receive life-saving transfusions each day.

Blood and platelets donors must be at least 17 years old and weigh no less than 110 pounds. It is safe to give blood every 56 days and platelets every two weeks.

For more information on local blood drives, contact the Moore County Chapter of the American Red Cross at 692-8571.