The American Red Cross is urging eligible blood donors to donate a little early in honor of World Blood Donor Day.

Every year, countries around the world celebrate World Blood Donor Day on June 14. The occasion raises awareness of the need for safe blood and blood products, and thanks voluntary blood donors for their lifesaving gifts of blood.

“World Blood Donor Day comes at a very important time each year,” said North Central Blood Services Region CEO Geoff Kaufmann in a press release. “Summer can be a challenging time for blood donations, with fewer donors available to donate blood due to busy summer schedules. World Blood Donor Day gives us an opportunity to highlight the need for blood during the summer months and year-round.”

Ahead of World Donor Day, several events are planned locally.

To learn more and make an appointment to donate blood, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Local blood drives

June 2, 1-7 p.m. at Corcoran Center, 2001 2nd Ave. NW in Austin, Minn.

June 3, 12-6 p.m. at Corcoran Center, 2001 2nd Ave. NW in Austin, Minn.

June 4, 12-6 p.m. at Corcoran Center, 2001 2nd Ave. NW in Austin, Minn.

June 5, 12-6 p.m. at St Olafs Lutheran Church, 306 2nd St. NW in Austin, Minn.

June 9, 1-7 p.m. at Mower County Senior Citizens Center, 400 3rd Ave. NE in Austin, Minn.