Howard County Blood Drives

Give thanks and give back: Donate blood or platelets
Help patients relying on blood transfusions throughout the holidays

COLUMBIA, MO (Nov. 29, 2023) — In the continuing spirit of Thanksgiving, the American Red
Cross urges donors to give thanks and give back by making a plan to give blood or platelets in
the coming weeks.
This time of year is traditionally hard on the nation’s blood supply. Seasonal illness, winter
weather and holiday celebrations often lead to lower appointment numbers and decreased
donor turnout, making it hard to keep up with the demand for blood products. When they give
now, donors can ensure patients have access to lifesaving blood and platelets through the end
of the year.
The public can schedule an appointment now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App,
visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). To celebrate
the upcoming Prime Video release, Candy Cane Lane, those that come to give blood in
December will be automatically entered to win a holiday prize package, including a
$1,000 Amazon.com Gift Card and 65-inch Omni QLED Series Amazon Fire TV. There will be
12 winners. Plus, those who come to give Dec. 1-17 will get a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by
email. Terms for both offers apply. See rcblood.org/Amazon. Candy Cane Lane features an all-
star cast, including Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross, and directed by Reginald Hudlin.
Upcoming blood donation opportunities Dec. 1 – Dec. 17: