The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive at the Clanton Walmart Supercenter Friday, Jan. 29 from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The Red Cross is calling on all eligible donors to give blood to ensure that a safe and stable blood supply is available over the coming weeks.

The most critical current need is for donors with Type O blood, which makes up more than half of the total blood requested by the more than 100 hospitals served in the Alabama and Central Gulf Coast Region.

Because O Negative is considered “universal donor” blood, it can be used to treat trauma patients in an emergency when time is of the essence and the patient’s blood type is unknown.

To give blood, you must weigh at least 110 pounds, be at least 17 years old, and be in general good health.

If you are sick and cannot donate, please recruit a friend or family member to give in your place. All donors must have a photo ID or American Red Cross donor card.

If you cannot donate, please ask someone to donate in your place.