Santee residents have a local opportunity Thursday to donate blood as the American Red Cross warns of a national blood crisis, according to Patch.

The Red Cross said summer blood donations have fallen to their lowest level in four years and are not keeping pace with hospital demand. All blood types are needed, but the shortage is most severe for type O blood, with type O-positive blood supplies falling below a one-day inventory, Patch reported.

The organization attributed the shortage to extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses that have reduced donor turnout this summer. Donors who give blood through July 31 are eligible to receive a Fandango movie ticket by email worth up to $15, according to Patch and the Red Cross.

In Santee, a blood drive is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, July 30, at Summit Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 8778 Cottonwood Ave. Residents can also search for future appointments through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, RedCrossBlood.org or 1-800-RED-CROSS.

For Santee families, the shortage is a reminder that blood supplies depend on regular local donors, especially during summer months when heat, travel and illness can reduce turnout while emergency demand remains high.