The American Red Cross is calling for help from the St. Joseph Community to fill a blood donation shortage.

Kim Scott with the Red Cross says the agency is currently facing a looming shortage of the most needed blood types and, therefore, has an urgent need for eligible donors with O negative, B negative and A negative blood types to give to prevent an emergency situation.

A blood drive is being held today (Friday) in St. Joseph at St. Peter Lutheran Church 3524 St. Joseph ave. from 3-7 pm. All presenting donors will receive a free Worlds of Fun ticket. (while supplies last).

A blood drive is also being held in Wathena, Kan. today at the Wathena Community Center located at 303 E St. Joseph St. Wathena, KS 66090 until 7 p.m. Free t-shirts are being given away at that location.

Scott said summer shortage are not uncommon as regular givers participate in summer activities.