Vitalant encourages donors amid low holiday turnout
Blood donations support patients with illnesses, injuries
– Vitalant is asking eligible donors to schedule blood donation appointments in December to help support patients during a time of typically low turnout.
The organization reports that busy schedules and travel during late December lead to the lowest donor participation of the year, while the need for blood remains constant for patients.
As a thank you, donors who give during December will be entered for a chance to win Vitalant’s Big $20,000 Giveaway. One donor will be selected to receive a prepaid gift card. Donors who give from Dec. 14 to Jan. 4 and opt in to Vitalant Donor Rewards will receive a $15 gift card and a mystery item from the Rewards store.
Vitalant states that all blood types are needed, especially type O and platelet donors. Type O is used for the widest range of patients. Platelets are frequently used for cancer patients and must be used within a week of donation, requiring steady donations to maintain supply.
Blood donated in the coming weeks will help maintain availability for patients with chronic illness, those undergoing surgery and individuals recovering from traumatic injuries.
Appointments can be made at vitalant.org, through the vitalant app or by calling (877) 258-4825.
Upcoming San Luis Obispo County blood drives include Apogee Brewing in Grover Beach on Dec. 13 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Calvary Chapel in Arroyo Grande on Dec. 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; Paso Robles Sports Club on Dec. 15 from 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Adventist Health Twin Cities in Templeton on Dec. 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Morro Bay Community Center on Dec. 17 from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.; La Quinta Inn in Paso Robles on Dec. 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and Home Depot in Atascadero on Dec. 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Eligible donors may also give at the Vitalant San Luis Obispo donation center at 4119 Broad Street or at other community blood drives held weekly.
Terms and conditions for the giveaway are available at vitalant.org/holidaygiveaway.
