The American Red Cross plans to conduct a blood drive from 2 to 7 p.m. Monday at Walmart Supercenter, 1600 E. Tipton St. in Seymour.

Busy holiday schedules and seasonal illnesses, like the flu, can often mean fewer donors giving blood, according to a news release.

But for patients with cancer or other illnesses or injuries requiring blood transfusions, the need for blood is constant and doesn’t get a holiday break.

To encourage donations and show appreciation, all those who attempt to donate blood Dec. 24 through Jan. 4 will receive a long-sleeve Red Cross T-shirt while supplies last.

Eligible donors with all blood types are needed, especially those with type O negative, A negative or B negative.

To learn more about donating blood and to schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-733-2767.