Blood Drive Sunday at Porterville Church of Nazarene

Porterville Church of the Nazarene is hosting a blood drive on Sunday, Dec. 16. A bloodmobile will be located in the church parking lot, 2005 W. Olive Ave., between the hours of 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Eagle Mountain Casino will have a blood drive on Thursday, Dec. 27. A bloodmobile will be located in the casino’s parking lot, 681 S. Tule Road, between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Donors at either of the blood drives will receive a variety of discounts from Valley businesses for dining, recreation, entertainment and services.

“Donating during the holiday season can be a challenge with more hectic than usual schedules. However, the need for blood increases during this time,” said Chris Sorensen, director of community relations and development for Central California Blood Center.

“Please, try to set aside just one hour, today or very soon, and give the gift of life. If you have never donated, celebrate your good health and everyone you hold dear, by giving. Patients in Valley hospitals need your generous “gift of life.”

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 — 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 4 hours prior to their donation. Donors can give blood every eight weeks. Photo ID and Social Security number are required at donor registration.

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 our Valley community.