Once again the Red Cross is in such need of blood product donors that it has resorted to gift cards and contest entries to lure people in to help. And during this Trauma Awareness Month, the American Red Cross is placing particular emphasis on those with Type O negative blood, which helps hospitals stay prepared for emergencies.

In fact, Type O blood of either kind is sought-after because it is so useful in hospitals.

“Type O negative is the universal blood type and what emergency room personnel reach for when there is no time to determine a patient’s blood type in the most serious situations,” the Red Cross said. “Type O positive blood is the most used blood type because it can be transfused to Rh-positive patients of any blood type.”

And, Type O blood donors are also deemed “Power Red” donors, because they can safely donate two units of red blood cells during one donation.

In a medical trauma situation, blood supplies can quickly be depleted — and of course, donors of all types are necessary.

Until May 19, those donors can receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of choice and be entered to win a trip to the 2023 MLB All-Star Game in Seattle.

Local opportunities include:

• Sebring McKinley High School, 8 a.m.-2 p.m., today

• Damascus United Methodist Church, 1-6 p.m. May 16

• Das Dutch Village Inn, Columbiana, 1-6 p.m. May 25

• Metrovich Community Center, Calcutta, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. June 13

• First Free Methodist Church, East Liverpool, 12:30-5:30 p.m. Aug. 21

You — yes, you — have the ability to help; and no matter blood type, supplies are worryingly low. Make an appointment, roll up your sleeves, and go make a difference.