(ABC 6 News)- People are being urged to donate blood after the American Red Cross announced a nationwide blood shortage emergency.

According to the Red Cross, donations have reached a 20 year low as the number of people giving to the organization has dropped by about 40%.

It is normally to see a dip in donations during the winter but many canceled blood drives due to weather has contributed to the shortage.

The Red Cross has also found a decline in donors post-pandemic, as most work remotely makes it more challenging for there to be convenient blood drives.

The shortage can lead to medical operations being put on hold and make it more challenging in emergency situations.

For those who may be considering giving blood, your donation will end up helping those in need.

“You’ll be giving the best kind of gift you can because you’re helping to ensure that that blood is available for who ever needs, where ever they need it,” said Melanie Tschida, Executive Director at American Red Cross, Southeast Minnesota.

The Red Cross says that every donation matters no matter your age, where you donate or if you have donated before.

For more information on where you can donate through the American Red Cross visit redcrossblood.org.

For donation information at Mayo Clinic click here.