The holidays are a time to spend with loved ones, and a time to reflect. People donate blood because they care. People donate blood because they want to help save lives. But most importantly, people donate blood because they can.

Thousands of people donate blood in our area each year, and their generous gift has helped save countless lives. With every donation, theres always a reason behind it. So this winter, the American Red Cross is asking African American and Hispanic American blood and platelet donors, Why Do You Give?

There will be a blood drive on Tuesday, January 5, at St. Lukes Hospital (220 Hospital Drive; Columbus, NC) from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 828-894-2408 for further information or to schedule your appointment.

All presenting donors will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a $1000 gift card.

There will be another blood drive on Monday, January 11, at Holy Cross Episcopal Church (150 Melrose Avenue; Tryon, NC) from 12:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Call 828-894-2700 for further information or to schedule your appointment.

All presenting donors will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a $1000 gift card

While the American Red Cross invites everyone to donate blood, African Americans and Hispanic Americans are highly encouraged to donate blood and blood components.

A study completed by the Red Cross shows that in communities with higher populations of African Americans and Hispanic Americans, there is a higher percentage of blood donors with Type O or Type B blood, the two most requested blood types by hospitals.

During the winter holiday season, blood donations often decline between Thanksgiving and New Years Day due to holiday preparations and travel, but the need for blood remains constant. Its important for individuals to take the time to give the gift of life during these coming months.

The Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region provides lifesaving blood to 103 hospitals and must have 1,600 people give blood and platelets each weekday to meet hospital demand.

Accident victims as well as patients with cancer, sickle cell disease, blood disorders and other illnesses receive lifesaving transfusions every day. There is no substitute for blood and volunteer donors are the only source.

Blood can be safely donated every 56 days. Most healthy people age 17 and older, or 16 with parental consent, who weigh at least 110 pounds, are eligible to donate blood and platelets. Donors who are 18 and younger must also meet specific height and weight requirements.

For more information or to locate a nearby blood drive, please call 1-800-GIVE LIFE (448-3543) or visit RedCrossBlood.org.