MADISON — The American Red Cross has an emergency need for lifesaving blood amid the ongoing severe blood shortage. Blood and platelet donations continue to be critical to meet hospital demand and the public is urged to make an appointment to give now.

Donors who give now will help stock the shelves as the summer season winds down. Schedule an appointment to give blood or platelets by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 800-733-2767.

In most cases, those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine can donate.

Blood donation opportunities in Green County:

●  Monroe: 12 to 6 p.m. Aug. 19 at Monroe Bible Church, 2613 8th Ave.

●  Albany: 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at the Lions Building, 402 Cincinnati St.

Opportunities to donate in Lafayette County:

●  Blanchardville: 1 to 6 p.m. Aug. 16 at American Legion, 218 Mason

●  Argyle: 1 to 6 p.m. Aug. 18 at Argyle High School, 14665 WI 78.