Planning your next do-it-yourself or home improvement project? People who present to donate blood or platelets during the American Red Cross “Building a Better Blood Supply” promotion held from Jan. 1 through March 31, will be entered for a chance to win a $1,000 gift card to a home improvement store.

Winter weather and busy schedules tend to keep donors away, but the need for blood is constant.

“Donating blood only takes about an hour, but the benefits can be lifesaving for a patient in your community,” said Delisa English, chief executive officer, Carolinas Blood Services Region. “This time of year is always challenging, but we hope our dedicated donors continue to make it a priority to build a better blood supply.”

Upcoming Haywood donations will be:

• 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. ...