September is Sickle Cell Awareness Month, and residents throughout Westchester are taking action to help those impacted by it.

The Westchester Community Health Center in Mount Vernon is hosting a blood drive on Tuesday to help sickle cell patients.

The disease causes red blood cells to become misshapen, potentially blocking blood flow and causing complications to one's health. Officials at the health center say it affects one out of every 365 African American births, and more than 100,000 people currently live with the disease in the U.S.

The Westchester County Board of Legislators' Majority Leader Tyrae Woodson-Samuels co-sponsored the blood drive. Health officials at Westchester Community Health Center say the event is vital in ensuring those with sickle cell disease don't go unnoticed.

“There’s a national shortage of blood," said Judith Watson, the CEO of Westchester Community Health Center. "So, as a federally qualified health center, we’re donating blood so we can do our part to help resolve this shortage.”

The blood drive runs until 4 p.m. in the back parking lot of Westchester Community Health Center. Appointments are preferred and can be made online, but walk-ins will be welcomed if space permits.

Anyone who participates will receive a gift card and other swag.