MONROE — Autumn leaves are falling, and the American Red Cross is calling. Now is a great time to give back to hospital patients by donating blood.

With fewer people giving blood than in years past, first-time donors are strongly encouraged to give.

All who come to give between Nov. 18 and Dec. 8 will receive two pairs of custom TV show “Friends” and Red Cross socks while supplies last. Keep a pair; gift a pair.

Upcoming Blood Drives

Belmont: 11/11: 12:30-5:30 p.m., Belmont Inn and Suites, 103 West Moundview Avenue

Benton: 11/14: 1-5 p.m., Benton School, 41 Alma St

New Glarus: 11/16: 8 a.m.-noon, New Glarus EMS, 401 3rd St

Scales Mound: 11/18: 12:30-5:30 p.m., Scales Mound High School Agriculture Building, 210 Main St

Albany: 11/20: 1-6 p.m., Elementary School, 309 Vinton S

Evansville: 11/20: 12-6 p.m., Creekside Place Community Center, 102 Maple St

Juda: 11/21: 1-6 p.m., Juda High School, N2385 Spring St

Lena: 11/22: 1-5:30 p.m., Lena American Legion Hall, 316 Main St

Monroe: 11/25: 11:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., United Methodist Church, 2227 4th St

Belleville: 11/26: 1-6 p.m., St. Francis of Assisi Church, 338 S Harrison St

Schedule an appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).