Thousands of people responded to an emergency call for blood and platelet donations in early July, but a critical summer blood shortage continues, according to a news release by the American Red Cross.

Eligible donors of all types are urgently needed, the release said.

The Red Cross saw a 30 percent increase in blood donation appointments through mid-July after the emergency appeal for donations. About half of the appointments were scheduled using the free Blood Donor App or at redcrossblood.org.

But blood products still are being distributed as fast as donations come in, so more are needed to meet patient needs and replenish the blood supply, the release said.

“The blood supply is like a cellphone battery, it constantly needs recharging,” said Kelly Isenor, external communications manager of the Connecticut Blood Services Region. “We sincerely appreciate those who have responded to the call to help save lives and encourage those who haven’t to consider rolling up a sleeve and give the gift of life. It only takes about an hour but can mean a lifetime for patients.”

The Red Cross received nearly 61,000 fewer blood donations than needed in May and June, prompting the emergency call for donations in early July.

To help, use the Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Those who give blood or platelets with the Red Cross from July 26 through Aug. 31 will be emailed a $5 Target gift card.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities July 25 through Aug. 15:

Gales Ferry

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[naviga:li]Aug. 10, 1 - 6 p.m., Our Lady of Lourdes, 1650 Route 12

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New London

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[naviga:li]July 28, noon - 5 p.m., Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, 365 Montauk Ave.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Aug. 8, 1 - 6 p.m., Congregation Beth El, 660 Ocean Ave.

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Niantic

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[naviga:li]Aug. 4, 1:30 - 6:30 p.m., East Lyme Community Center, 39 Society Road

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North Stonington

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[naviga:li]Aug. 1, 1 - 6 p.m., Grace Fellowship Evangelical Free Church, 102 Providence-New London Turnpike, Route 184 / Gold Star Highway

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Norwich

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[naviga:li]July 27, 12:30 - 6:15 p.m., Norwich Donor Center, 45 Salem Turnpike[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]July 27, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Dime Bank Corporate, 290 Salem Turnpike[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Aug. 1, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Norwich Donor Center, 45 Salem Turnpike[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Aug. 3, 12:30 p.m. - 6:15 p.m., Norwich Donor Center, 45 Salem Turnpike[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Aug. 8, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Norwich Donor Center, 45 Salem Turnpike[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Aug. 8, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., United Community and Family Services, 47 Town St.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Aug. 10, 12:30 p.m. - 6:15 p.m., Norwich Donor Center, 45 Salem Turnpike[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Aug. 15, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Norwich Donor Center, 45 Salem Turnpike

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Pawcatuck

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[naviga:li]July 27, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., Stonington Police Department, 173 S. Broad St.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]July 28, 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Stonington High School, 176 S. Broad St.

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Uncasville

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[naviga:li]July 31, 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., VFW Post 10060, 97 Raymond Hill Road

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Waterford

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[naviga:li]Aug. 4, 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Orthodontic Associates of Southeastern Connecticut, 196 Waterford Parkway South, No. 305[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Aug. 11, 12:30 p.m. - 6:15 p.m., Waterford Town Hall, 15 Rope Ferry Road

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Yantic

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[naviga:li]Aug. 11, 1:45 - 7:15 p.m., Dodd Stadium, Norwich, 14 Stott Ave.[/naviga:li]

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