Blood drawing set for Monday, Dec. 15

Special to the Daily News

The American Red Cross is asking people in Hill County to give something that means something this holiday season – a lifesaving blood donation.

The Red Cross is holding a blood drawing Monday, Dec. 15, from 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. at Havre High School at 900 18th Street.

Blood donations often decline this time of year when donors get busy with holiday festivities and travel. Severe winter weather and seasonal illnesses, like the flu, can also have a serious impact on blood donations, but the need for blood remains steady. On average, the Red Cross must collect 15,000 blood products every day for patients across the country.

Eligible donors with all types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative and B negative. To learn more about donating blood and to schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS, or 1-800-733-2767.

To donate blood, people can download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-733-2767 to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age — 16 with parental consent in some states — weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, people can visit redcross.org or on Twitter at @RedCross.