The American Red Cross is hosting blood drives in Mahoning and Trumbull counties in preparation for Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, as well as the winter months when donations are typically lower.

Red Cross officials urge people to make an appointment to give blood now to keep the blood supply steady over the busy holiday season for those who may be in need.

In Mahoning County, blood drives are set 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday at Stambaugh Auditorium, 1000 Fifth Ave., Youngstown, and 1 to 6 p.m. Tuesday at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2305 S. Canfield Niles Road, Austintown.

In Trumbull County, a blood drive is set 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today at Packard Music Hall, 1703 Mahoning Ave., Warren.

Ryan Lang, regional communications manager for the American Red Cross Northern Ohio Region, said all who come to give at these blood drives will receive a Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. Donors also will enjoy special refreshments and be entered to win a variety of raffle prizes.

Lang said busy holiday schedules, seasonal illnesses and winter weather can often disrupt the ability of the Red Cross to collect enough blood for patients during the winter months. The Red Cross urges donors to make an appointment to give blood and ensure the local blood supply stays strong.

To schedule an appointment for one of the Mahoning Valley holiday blood drives, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter sponsor code HOLIDAYHERO or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Lang said all blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states or 16 with parental consent in Ohio, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.