PERU, Ind. – As the American Red Cross responds to wildfires and historic hurricanes, eligible donors are reminded that giving blood during National Preparedness Month in September is one way to help ensure the Red Cross is prepared to respond to patient emergencies across the country every day. Hurricane Irma has forced the cancellation of dozens of Red Cross blood drives in the Southeast, resulting in more than 2,100 uncollected blood and platelet donations. Individuals in parts of the country unaffected by Hurricane Irma are encouraged to give blood to help ensure a sufficient blood supply. All blood types are currently needed. Appointments can be made by using the Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 800-RED-CROSS. Upcoming drives in Peru are this Saturday at the Moose Lodge Family Center from 9AM-2PM, and on October 6th at Peru High School from 8AM-1:30PM. More information about how the Red Cross is responding to hurricanes Harvey and Irma, the western wildfires and other disasters is available at redcross.org.