The Red Cross is declaring a national blood crisis for the first time because the country's blood supply is dangerously low.

The pandemic has caused a decline in donor turnout, the cancellation of blood drives and staffing challenges.

That's led to the worst blood shortage in more than a decade.

MORE: Consider donating blood

"The crisis is the worst we've seen in over a decade," says Dr. Pampee Young, chief medical officer for Biomedical Services of the American Red Cross. "We encourage anyone who is healthy and feeling well to roll up their sleeves and make an appointment. We require masks for all of our staff and donors and anyone associated with the blood drive, so the donation process is very safe."

The Red Cross is offering upcoming blood drives in the Hudson Valley.

Here's how you can schedule an appointment to donate.