Today is World Blood Donor Day, a reminder that the American Red Cross is just one part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent network — “the largest humanitarian network in the world with a presence and activities in almost every country,” it says.

Throughout that network, donors are the reason blood and blood products are available for those whose lives depend on it.

Lately, it seems those donors are even harder to come by. And on this day celebrating blood donors, there is a drastic shortfall in donations that reaches back over the past several weeks. Summer travel and severe weather here in the U.S. seem to have affected the blood supply.

“June 14 is World Blood Donor Day, a day meant to raise awareness of the need for a safe, diverse and stable blood supply, and to recognize volunteer blood donors,” the Red Cross says. “This is the perfect time to give, especially for those who haven’t given in a while, or who have never given before.”

As has become the habit in recent years, the Red Cross is willing to resort to giving away a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of choice to those who donate between now and June 30.

Orchard Hall, located at 476 Harper Road in Elkins, will host a blood drive on Wednesday, June 19 from 1-6 p.m. Future blood drives at Orchard Hall are set for July 17 and Aug. 14, from 1-6 p.m. each time.

Other local blood drives include events at The Way of Holiness Church in Buckhannon on Thursday, June 20, from noon to 6 p.m.; at the First United Methodist Church in Parsons on Monday, June 24 from noon to 5 p.m.; at the Benedum Center in Bridgeport on Wednesday, June 26, from 1-6 p.m.; and at the Parks and Recreations Building in Marlinton on Tuesday, Aug. 6 from noon to 6 p.m.

Go to RedCrossBlood.org to find out more.

Roll up your sleeve and make a difference. And while you’re at it, remember there are people all over the world doing the same. The individuals and families for whom those donations have and will make a difference are certainly grateful.