The Community Blood Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania and Western New York is urging eligible donors to give blood immediately as supplies have fallen to dangerously low levels.

The organization says hospital patients are in immediate need, with all blood types urgently required, especially O-positive and O-negative. O-negative is considered the universal donor type, used in emergencies when there is no time to determine a patient’s blood type.

“The demand for blood is historically high, but donations have dropped significantly,” said Megan Solensky, Community Relations Specialist. “We are asking the public to respond to this emergency with the same urgency we feel. The lives of our neighbors, friends, and family members in local hospitals are at stake.”

The Erie Donor Center at 2646 Peach Street has extended hours and is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The first 30 donors there will receive a $15 Citgo gift card, an air freshener, and a tie-dye t-shirt.

Appointments are encouraged by calling (814) 456-4206, but walk-ins are welcome as space allows.