W’burg blood drive planned Friday (Dec. 1)

While the holidays are a joyous time for many, it can be difficult on the blood supply. To ensure everyone has a safe and happy holiday season, Kentucky Blood Center is urging donors to give back by donating blood.

Local residents will have the opportunity to do so on Friday, Dec. 1, from 1 – 4 p.m. at the Williamsburg Tourism and Convention Center, which is located at 650 S. 10^th Street.

Donors, who give blood at the drive, will receive a limited-edition “Donating is My Favorite” T-shirt.

Blood donation is vital for many healthcare treatments and procedures, including the fight against cancer, traumas, surgeries, premature births, organ transplants, diseases like sickle cell disease, anemia and so much more. The generosity of Kentuckians is critical for Kentucky Blood Center to supply more than 70 local hospitals.

On average, one in four people will need a blood transfusion in their lifetime.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, show a photo identification and meet additional requirements. Sixteen-year-old donors must have a signed parental permission slip, which can be found at kybloodcenter.org.

Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are welcome. To schedule a donation, visit kybloodcenter.org or call (800) 775-2522.

KBC is the largest independent, full-service, nonprofit blood center in Kentucky. Licensed by the FDA, KBC’s sole purpose is to collect, process and distribute blood for patients in Kentucky. KBC provides services in 90 Kentucky counties and has donor centers in Lexington, Louisville, Frankfort, Pikeville, Somerset and the Tri-County area in Corbin.