JESUP — Wayne Memorial Hospital will host a community blood drive with the American Red Cross from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday in the bloodmobile located in the parking lot.

“Hosting a blood drive coincides with Wayne Memorial’s core value of caring for the community,” hospital CEO Joe Ierardi said in a news release. “With a simple blood donation, we have the ability to help save the life of someone who could be a co-worker, loved one or neighbor.”

Blood is routinely transfused to patients with cancer and other diseases, premature babies, organ transplant recipients and trauma victims, according to the Red Cross.

“The short amount of time it takes to donate can mean a lifetime to a patient with a serious medical condition. We urge eligible donors to join us in the selfless act of giving blood,” he added.

Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with types O-negative, B-negative and A-negative.

According to the Red Cross, type O-negative is the universal blood type that can be safely transfused to anyone and is often used to treat trauma patients.

All presenting donors with a valid email address on file with the Red Cross will receive a free haircut coupon from Sports Clips. Donors will also receive a commemorative 9/11 sticker and be entered to win a $25 gift card from the hospital.

For more information or to make an appointment to donate, call 1-800-Red-Cross or sign up online at redcrossblood.org with sponsor code wmh.