The American Red Cross asks donors to “Give Something That Means Something” for a chance to win a $1,000 gift card useable toward gas, rent, food or tickets to a favorite concert or sporting event.

“Donating blood is an opportunity for people to give the most important gift of all, the ‘Gift of Life,’” said Delisa English, chief executive officer, American Red Cross, Carolinas Blood Services Region. “The Red Cross depends on the generosity of volunteer donors to meet the needs of patients in our area and across the country.”

The Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region provides lifesaving blood to patients in 103 hospitals. Approximately 1,600 people need to give blood or platelets each weekday to meet hospital demands.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities include:

• 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. ...