Holiday blood drives set

It’s a season of giving, and there’s no better present than the gift of life.

With December typically one of the lowest months for blood donations, local organizations are stepping up to help. Two drives are scheduled in McMinnville this month — one hosted by the police department, the other by Main Street Media — offering helpful incentives for donors and giving residents extra chances to give back during the holiday season.

On Wednesday, Dec. 17, the McMinnville Police Department will partner with Blood Assurance to host a community blood drive from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Farmer’s Market located at 100 Market St. The drive is open to all donors, and organizers say every pint donated will help maintain supply levels at regional hospitals as winter ramps up. Participants will receive a $25 e-gift card in return for their donation, and donors are encouraged to schedule appointments in advance.

The following week on Tuesday, Dec. 23, Main Street Media will host its own holiday blood drive in its parking lot at 230 W. Colville St. Also partnering with Blood Assurance, the drive will feature enhanced holiday incentives to encourage maximum turnout. Every donor will receive a $25 e-gift card, and as an extra bonus, one lucky donor will win a $50 gift card — but only if the drive hits a collection goal of at least 15 units that day. MSM organizers are also offering Dollywood tickets as a door-prize incentive, giving away four tickets to the Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration to add a festive twist to the holiday drive effort.

Blood Assurance notes that community blood drives — including those at local host sites like the police station or MSM offices — are critical to keeping supply levels stable. Donated blood helps patients in crisis, from accident victims and surgical patients to those undergoing treatment for chronic illnesses or emergencies.

Organizers hope the combined efforts will remind residents that even in a busy holiday season, one hour and one pint can make a life-saving difference. With convenient local drives and a variety of donor incentives, there’s no easier time to give than right now.