Blood usage has reached record levels in the Greater Houston area.

The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center said blood usage this year alone is up almost 15 percent. That translates to about 20,000 blood units.

While you don’t know when you’ll need blood, most know where to donate.

Now, Channel 11 has teamed up with several agencies to make it even easier to give.

We’ve joined AID American General, Kroger and KMJQ Majic 102 in the 16 ^th Annual Sprit of Texas Blood drive.

The giving begins Thursday, August 31 at AIG American General at 2727 Allen Parkway

from 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Friday, Sept. 1 from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m you can make blood donations.

You can also roll up your sleeves at area Kroger stores and the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center, now through Sept. 11.

You can just drop in or make an appointment.

All blood types needed.