Inland Northwest Blood Center is asking the community to donate blood in the wake of a large decrease in donors in recent weeks.

As the holidays approach, INBC faces a 40 percent decrease in blood donation. This occurs while the need for blood in the region increases, thus paving the way for a possibly severe blood shortage across the Inland Northwest.

In order to help maintain the blood supply, INBC is calling for anyone who is eligible to come in and donate — specifically those who have not donated before or have not been holding regular appointments. Regular donors do their best to maintain the blood supply, but an increased need accompanied with lower levels of blood donors means INBC requires new donors to help bolster the supply.

The blood center is asking people to choose to give the gift of life this holiday season, and reminding them that when they donate to INBC, they could be saving the lives of people they know.

To make sure blood is available when it’s needed, donors can visit www.inbcsaves.org to make an appointment, or call (800) 423-0151 to speak with an expert who can answer questions and schedule an appointment.

INBC also accepts walk-ins at all locations.

In Coeur d’Alene, visit 405 W. Neider Ave., Suite 102, Monday, Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. or Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.