Most of us think of the American Red Cross for one of two reasons: Blood donations and disaster response. But as the organization points out, its founder Clara Barton was a nursing pioneer who cared deeply about humans and their health care.

Here in Appalachia, one of the larger health care concerns is diabetes — and access to affordable, quality health care. But in March, the Red Cross is “helping to bridge access to health care for blood donors by providing free A1C testing, commonly used to screen for diabetes and prediabetes, on all successful blood, platelet and plasma donations.”

In the region covered by the American Red Cross of the Ohio River Valley — encompassing 19 counties, from Jefferson to Washington county on the Ohio side and from Hancock all the way down and over to Jackson and Roane counties on the West Virginia side — diabetes is a significant health concern. But it’s not always easy for patients to find out whether they have it and begin fighting back.

“This new offering is among the longtime work of the Red Cross to support the health of communities, which also includes disaster relief efforts such as basic disaster health and mental health services among other assistance,” the organization says.

At RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor app or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS, those interested in donating and finding out more about their A1C can book an appointment. Of course, there is another incentive, as those who give blood, platelets or plasma through March 31 will get a $10 Amazon gift card by e-mail.

Local opportunities to give in March include 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. today at the Chester American Legion, 404 Carolina Ave. in Chester; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 20 at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, 604 Colliers Way in Weirton; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 25 at the Bluewave Center, 1400 Main St. in Follansbee; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m March 27 at the Lighthouse Evangelical Presbyterian Church at 336 W. Main St. in Richmond; from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Hopedale Fire Hall, 100 Firehouse Lane in Hopedale; from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 28 at the Crossroads North River Campus, 207 N. River Ave. in Toronto; and 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 31 at Crossroads Christian Church, 110 Springdale Ave. in Wintersville.

The Red Cross continues its mission of “delivering care amid intensifying disasters,” as well; and in addition to giving blood, the organization encourages donors to consider giving financially on Giving Day, March 26.

If finding out more about your own health, getting a gift card and having the opportunity to support a far-reaching non-profit are not enough reason to connect with the Red Cross this month, here is the best: By doing so, you could save a life.