Mount Vernon High School will sponsor an American Red Cross blood drive on Friday, Dec. 26, at the Mount Vernon Grand Hotel, offering community members an opportunity to give blood during a time of heightened seasonal need.
The drive will run from noon to 5 p.m. in the hotel’s conference room at 12 Public Square. Organizers said the event aims to support the Red Cross’ ongoing efforts to maintain a stable blood supply during the winter months, when donations often decline.
“Every donation makes a difference," the school said in its announcement. "Join us and help save lives!”
In addition to traditional whole blood donations, eligible donors will have the option to give a Power Red donation instead. Whole blood donation is the most common method, involving the donation of approximately a pint of blood, a process that typically takes around an hour. Power Red donations collect a concentrated amount of red blood cells while returning most plasma and platelets to the donor. This option is available to donors who meet specific requirements and have type A negative, B negative, or O blood. It can be especially valuable for patients who need red cell transfusions.
The American Red Cross is encouraging donors to give blood or platelets this December to help maintain a reliable supply throughout the holiday season. Officials say types O positive, O negative, and B negative are especially needed. With December recognized as the National Month of Giving, the organization notes that every donation has the potential to offer hope and healing to patients in need.
Donors will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeve T-shirt and a $5 Dunkin’ gift card while supplies last, according to the school.
Appointments are encouraged. Participants may schedule a time by visiting RedCrossBlood.org and entering the sponsor code MVHS, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
