It's that time of year Red Cross members look forward to the least: the winter holiday months.

During this time, fewer people donate blood. Last year, 64,000 fewer people donated from Thanksgiving through the first week of January, compared to the rest of the year.

Representatives say there are a number of reasons for the shortage. One is that school is out, and 20 percent of the blood supply comes from high schools and colleges. Also, people are on vacation; some already donated to hurricane victims; and the bitter cold plays a part as well. 

That's why the Red Cross is stressing the importance of donating even during these cold months. 

"Hospital patients don't take a vacation. Hospital patients always need blood. The need is constant for red blood cells, plasma and platelets. Those are the three products you get out of one unit of blood, so that people are actually helping to save three lives," Red Cross Account Manager Robert Cotter said.

Just in the last week, weather led to the cancellations of three blood drives in Syracuse. If interested in donating, call 1-800-RED-CROSS to find a location near you.