The American Red Cross is in need of type O-negative blood donors. Locally, there is less than a six-hour supply of this blood type.

People with type O-negative blood are particularly in demand because they are the "universal donor." It means that people of all blood types can receive type O-negative blood safely, so it is used during life-threatening emergencies or when the matching blood type is in short supply.

You can help boost the supply of life-saving type O-negative blood by donating blood at the Fort Wayne Donor Center, located at 1212 E. California Rd., this week. Donor center hours are:

• Wednesday, May 14 & Thursday, May 15: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Friday, May 16 & Saturday, May 17: 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Men and women of all blood types are welcome to donate. All presenting donors will have the opportunity to enter a drawing for a $500 gasoline gift card.

In addition to whole blood, donors will have the opportunity to give double red cells. Unlike traditional whole blood donations, which are sent to the laboratory for separation into components, this process separates your blood into its components as it is being drawn. Because red cells are the component most needed for blood types O+, O-, A- and B-, double red cell donation allows you to give just what patients need.

If you are at least 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and are in good general health, you may be eligible to donate blood. All donors need to present positive identification. For more information or to schedule your blood donation appointment, please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543).