PDC to hold blood drive March 28

The administration and staff of Porterville Developmental Center are sponsoring a blood drive, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. on March 28 at a bloodmobile at PDC, 26501 Ave. 140.

All donors will receive a variety of discounts from Valley businesses for dining, recreation, entertainment and services.

Regular and first-time donors are encouraged to donate, as the Central California Blood Center is the sole provider of blood and blood products for the 31 hospitals in Fresno, Tulare, Madera, Kings and Mariposa Counties and must collect between 5,000 to 6,000 pints of blood a month to meet the needs of the Valley.

Blood donation takes less than one hour to complete. Donors must be in good general health, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old  or 16 years old with written parental consent. Senior citizens are encouraged to donate, as there is no upper age limit.

Donors should eat a good meal and drink plenty of water within four hours prior to the donation.

Photo ID and Social Security Number are required.