Amid a national blood and platelet shortage, the American Red Cross is encouraging the public to book donation appointments.

Type O blood donors and platelet donors are especially needed.

The Red Cross experienced a drop in blood and platelet donation in August. According to a news release, the Red Cross must collect 10,000 additional blood products each week over the next month to meet hospital and patient needs.

Donors who book appointments between Oct. 1 and 20 will receive a $15 Amazon gift card by email. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Together.

An appointment to donate blood can be made by downloading the Red Cross blood donor app, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.