If you are at least 17 years old, 110 pounds and healthy, you can help save lives.

The American Red Cross is at a critical need for blood donors.

“A critical blood shortage like the one we’re experiencing right now could have a devastating effect on a patient whose survival may depend on blood being there when needed,” Dr. Kenneth McMilin, Medical Director of the Southeast Division of the American Red Cross Biomedical Services, said.

The American Red Cross has three blood drives coming up in Selma: July 12 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Wallace College library/gym lobby; July 13 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Bloodmobile in front of the Selma-Dallas County Public Library; and Tuesday, July 19 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Park Place Nursing and Rehab Center.

The Red Cross Alabama and Central Gulf Coast Blood Services Region provide lifesaving blood to approximately 100 hospitals and must have 600 people give blood and platelets each weekday to meet hospital demand.

Accident victims, as well as patients with cancer and other illnesses, receive lifesaving transfusions every day. There is no substitute for blood, and volunteer donors are the only source.

In addition to helping save lives, each donor will be entered into a regional drawing for $3,000.

Donors should bring their blood donor card or another form of ID.