CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The American Red Cross is urging eligable donors to give blood after declaring an emergency blood shortage. The organization says the national blood supply dropped 25% in June, leaving hospitals with fewer lifesaving donations available. Summer is traditionally one of the most challenging times of year for blood collection. Jason Gudzunas, executive director of the American Red Cross, encouraged healthy, eligible donors to schedule an appointment and help ensure patients have access to the blood they need for emergencies, surgeries and ongoing medical treatments. For more information or to schedule a donation, visit redcross.org. ...read more read less