Giving blood, about 20 years ago, was something of a duty for Americans. According to the Red Cross, the agency provides about 40% of our nation’s blood and blood components, all from generous volunteer donors. But supply can’t always meet demand because only about 3% of age-eligible people donate blood yearly.

Other statistics note:

¯ Each year, an estimated 6.8 million people in the U.S. donate blood.

¯ 13.6 million units of whole blood and red blood cells are collected in the U.S. in a year.

¯ About 45% of people in the U.S. have Group O (positive or negative) blood; the proportion is higher among Hispanics (57%) and African Americans (51%).

¯ Type O negative red cells can be given to patients of all blood types. Because only 7% of people in the U.S. are type O negative, it’s always in great demand and often in short supply.

Starting today, a pair of drives are being held by the Community Blood Bank. The organization notes hospital usage is increasing, while numbers of donors are on the decline.

“Each day premature babies are born, cancer patients rely on platelets, and accidents, emergencies and traumas happen – the need for blood doesn’t stop.” says Community Blood Bank’s Executive Director, Dee Rosenthal. “All types are needed, however, there has been a near constant critical need for type O.”

If you can help, here is where the drives will be taking place:

≤ Today — Warren Walmart, 2901 Market St., from 1 to 5 p.m.

≤ Tuesday — Holy Redeemer Church, 11 Russell St., Warren, noon to 5:30 p.m.