A blood drive is being held in Mount Vernon on Friday as the American Red Cross issues a nationwide call for donations.

Friday's event is being held at the Dole's Center at 250 S. 6th Ave. from 11:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Free T-shirts are being promised while supplies last, and all donors will receive a free health screening prior to donating.

The event is sponsored by the Mount Vernon Police Department and the American Red Cross.

A recent alert from the humanitarian organization suggests "As Hurricane Ian threatens the southeast, your blood donation is needed now to prevent potential disruptions to patient care."

For more information on why you should consider donating blood, click here.