 The American Red Cross is asking for your help in addressing winter blood donation shortage. Red Cross officials say severe winter weather has caused the cancellation of 150 blood drives, which means 5,500 blood and platelet donations were not collected. Seasonal illnesses and hectic holiday schedules also contributed to lower donations and left the Red Cross about 28,000 donations short of what was needed. While all blood types are urgently needed, there is more critical need for blood types type O negative, type B negative, and type AB. To sign up for a local blood drive, go to the address on the screen. Also our website has a list of several upcoming blood donation opportunities in several cities in our viewing area. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.