By 1812Blockhouse
As the holiday season approaches, the American Red Cross is encouraging individuals to prioritize blood and platelet donations. With a consistent need for blood supplies, particularly Type O negative and platelets, donors have the unique opportunity to make a life-saving impact this December.
Why Now Is Critical
The Red Cross emphasizes that donations are essential to ensure patients receive the care they need during the holidays and into the new year. Blood and platelet donations support individuals undergoing surgeries, cancer treatments, and those with chronic conditions requiring transfusions.
To make donating easy and accessible, the Red Cross offers several tools for scheduling appointments. Use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to find a location near you.
As a special thank-you, donors giving blood between December 16 and January 3 will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved t-shirt (while supplies last).
Upcoming Donation Opportunities
If you’re in the Richland County area or nearby, here are the upcoming blood drives:
- Wednesday, Dec. 18
- Richland Mall, Ontario: Noon to 6:00 PM
- K of C Hall, 208 Vernon Rd., Shelby: 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Planktown Country Market, 1921 Free Rd., Shiloh: Noon to 6:00 PM
- Friday, Dec. 20
- Resurrection Parish, 2600 Lexington Ave., Lexington: Noon to 5:00 PM
- Saturday, Dec. 21
- Richland Mall, Ontario: 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Tuesday, Dec. 24
- Richland Mall, Ontario: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Thursday, Dec. 26
- Richland Mall, Ontario: Noon to 6:00 PM
- Friday, Dec. 27
- YMCA, 750 Scholl Rd., Mansfield: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
- Saturday, Dec. 28
- Richland Mall, Ontario: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Tuesday, Dec. 31
- Richland Mall, Ontario: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Friday, Jan. 3
- Richland Mall, Ontario: Noon to 6:00 PM
How You Can Help
Blood donation is a simple and meaningful way to give back during this season of giving. Each donation has the potential to save multiple lives, and your contribution helps maintain a steady supply for patients in need. Whether you’re a first-time donor or a regular, your act of kindness will have a lasting impact.
Key Takeaways
- Donors of Type O negative blood and platelets are especially needed.
- Donations between Dec. 16 and Jan. 3 come with an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved t-shirt as a thank-you.
- Appointments can be made online, via app, or by phone.
- Several donation opportunities are available throughout Richland County and surrounding areas.
This December, take the time to make a difference. Roll up your sleeve and give the gift of life.
