Sioux Falls, SD — With Labor Day weekend fast approaching, Dakota News Now, GreatLIFE @ Avera McKennan Fitness Center, and Community Blood Bank are urging the community to donate now to help secure the local blood supply before the holiday rush. As travel increases and more people head out for the long weekend, Community Blood Bank historically sees a sharp rise in demand, driven by emergency situations, accidents, and patients facing serious medical conditions who rely on donated blood every day. The annual All American community blood drive will be held Friday, August 28th from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at GreatLIFE @ Avera McKennan Fitness Center (3400 S. Southeastern Ave.).
Every donation matters and time is limited. Donors can schedule an appointment now at www.cbblifeblood.org select “events,” then August 28th and Dakota News Now / Avera McKennan Fitness Center, or call 605-331-3222. All who donate will receive an All American t-shirt, $15 Hy-Vee gift card, and a $15 Hy-Vee fuel certificate, as thank you gifts.
“Labor Day weekend is one of the most unpredictable times of the year for blood usage. With more people traveling, more summer activities wrapping up, and an increase in traumas and emergencies, blood supplies can be depleted very quickly,” said Ken Versteeg, Executive Director, Community Blood Bank. “It only takes 30 minutes to provide life to three patients in the local area. We’re asking donors to act now, before the holiday weekend hits, to help us avoid a critical shortage. Every unit given on August 28th could be the one that saves a life when it’s needed most.”
Community Blood Bank was founded by Sanford Medical Center and Avera McKennan Hospital in 1976 to be the sole blood provider to local area hospitals. Today, Community Blood Bank remains the sole blood provider to all Sioux Falls hospitals and 32 other area hospitals. Every donation given locally stays local, directly saving lives in your community.
Donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with a signed parent consent form, available at www.cbblifeblood.org), weigh 110 pounds or more, and be in good general health. Donors exhibiting cold or flu symptoms are unable to donate. Valid identification is required at registration, and donors are encouraged to eat and drink plenty of fluids beforehand. For more information, visit www.cbblifeblood.org or call 605-331-3222.
