A blood drive next week in Columbia could assist those in need following the wrath of Hurricane Harvey.
Citizens Bank and United Blood Services are hosting a blood drive from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesday at the Main Street branch hopes to gather much-needed blood.
“Come give blood with us,” local coordinator Leitha Chapman of Citizens Bank said. “You can make a difference.”
According to United Blood Services, blood is needed not only for those impacted by the storm, but those undergoing surgery, receiving treatment for cancer or needing blood on a regular basis. UBS is asking donors to step up and give blood as soon as possible in the coming weeks as part of a nationwide effort to help support the routine and emergency blood needs of people impacted by Harvey.
Blood centers in Texas and Louisiana are counting on donors in other parts of the country to support the blood emergency and routine blood needs of patients in the effected areas.
While all types of blood are currently needed, there is special need for O-negative and O-positive blood donors. Platelet donations are also in demand as platelets are only usable for five days.
To make an appointment, go to www.bloodhero.com (sponsor code citizensbank). Walk-in donors will also be accepted. Donors will receive a free T-shirt while supplies last.
Pictured Above: Promoting the blood drive at Citizens Bank are, from left, Cole Oglesbee, Matt Rayborn, Rechele Watts, Vonda Blackwell, Leitha Chapman and John Pounds. | Photo by Mark Rogers
