Vitalant is urging eligible blood donors to donate in July to help avoid a summer blood shortage and possibly win a car.

All donors who give blood between Wednesday and July 31 will be entered for a chance to win a car.

Donations from donors of all blood types help patients. Type O and platelet donors are especially needed.

Type O can help patients of most blood types. Platelets help stop bleeding and must be used within a week of donation.

Donors can find information about the car giveaway and schedule a donation appointment at vitalant.org or by calling 877-258- 4825.