By Cynthia Grau/WJEZ News

The holiday season is a time of giving and the American Red Cross is looking for donors to give the gift of life by donating blood or platelets.

Blood donations often decline during the holidays when busy schedules, inclement weather and seasonal illnesses can make it more difficult for donors to make and keep donation appointments, but the need for blood doesn’t get a break for the holiday season.

Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS for a list of donating opportunities. People who donated between December 23 and January 3 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.