CLAY COUNTY — The American Red Cross states there is a continuing critical need for blood products to ensure patient care.Type O blood donors and those giving platelets are especially needed.

In Clay County, there are seven blood drives through the end of September where donations can be made. To schedule a time to give blood or platelets, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call (800) RED-CROSS or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Local blood drive times are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13, North Kansas City Public Library, 2251 Howell St.; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, Antioch Bible Baptist Church, 800 NE 72nd St., Gladstone; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday, Sept. 16, Northland Christian School, 10500 N. Arrowhead Trafficway; 1 to 5 p.m. Sept. 18, The Landing at Briarcliff, 1725 NW 38th St., Kansas City; 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sept. 20, Clay County Public Health Center, 800 Haines Drive, Liberty; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 26, WellWay, 2551 Norterre Circle, Liberty; and 2 to 6 p.m. Sept. 26, Optum Community Center, North Kansas City, 4906 N. Oak Trafficway.