◆ Need for blood is critical.

Coldwell Banker Country Estates and the American Red Cross are teaming up this month for a community blood drive. The blood drive is slated to take place on Saturday, September 12 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Thayne LDS Stake Center.

According to the American Red Cross, one blood donation can save up to three lives. The need for blood donations is constant.

Red Cross statistics indicate that someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds. However, less than 38 percent of the population of the United States is eligible to give blood or platelets.

“Blood] is essential for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries,” the Red Cross website states. “Whether a patient receives whole blood, red cells, platelets or plasma, this lifesaving care starts with one person making a generous donation.”

Donors can set appointments for the September 12 community blood drive online at redcrossblood.org; or by calling 1-800-733-2767.

For more information on the September 12 event, contact Casey Murphy, blood drive manager, at (307) 883-7000.