MANCHESTER — The American Red Cross is asking people to secure their blood or platelet donation appointment now to help the blood supply stay ahead of building seasonal pressures.

Just one hour of time could help patients celebrate more life with loved ones in the weeks ahead.

This time of year gets busy fast. Many are gearing up for the end of the school year or making plans for early summer fun, which can disrupt people’s schedules and cause a drop in donation appointments. The Red Cross calls on donors of all blood types — and those giving platelets — to book a time to give now.

By giving, donors have the chance to return to give over the summer to maximize their impact. Lock in your appointment to give blood or platelets now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Those who give by May 31 will receive an oversized Red Cross beach towel while supplies last.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities are as follows:

Bedford

May 29: noon – 4:30 p.m., St. Elizabeth Seton Church Parish Center, 190 Meetinghouse Rd.

Hudson

May 23: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., St. Kathryn Parish, 4 Dracut Rd.

May 29: 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., VFW Hudson Memorial Post 5791, 15 Bockes Rd.

Merrimack

May 28: noon – 5:30 p.m., Our Lady of Mercy, 16 Baboosic Lake Rd.

Milford

May 22: 12:30 – 5:30 p.m., Milford Masonic Temple, 30 Mont Vernon St.

Nashua

May 20: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., St. Joseph Hospital, 172 Kinsley St.

May 21: noon – 4:30 p.m., Temple Beth Abraham, 4 Raymond St.

May 21: noon – 6 p.m., Sheraton Nashua Hotel, 11 Tara Blvd.

May 23: 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Nashua Center, 18 Simon St.

May 26: noon – 6 p.m., Nashua Elks Lodge, 12 Murphy Dr., Unit B-1

May 30: 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Immaculate Conception Gathering Hall, 216 East Dunstable Rd.

Londonderry

May 30: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., St. Mark the Evangelist, 1 South Rd.

Windham

May 21: noon – 4:30 p.m., Windham Presbyterian Church, 1 Church Rd.