WVU Medicine Jefferson Medical Center and the American Red Cross will host a blood drive in July at the Ranson Civic Center.
The blood drive will be held from 12 to 7 p.m. on July 24. The Ranson Civic Center is located at 432 West Second Avenue in Ranson.
Donors must schedule an appointment in advance using sponsor code JC2020 to participate. Schedule an appointment by phone at 800.733.2767 or online at redcrossblood.org. Walk-in donations will not be accepted to limit crowds and ensure proper social distancing.
The American Red Cross has implemented additional precautions to ensure safety of donors and staff. Donors will be screened for potential exposure to COVID-19 upon arrival and may be asked to have their temperature checked. To follow social distancing practices, beds will be spaced a minimum of 6 feet apart.
Blood supply plays a critical role in the reopening of operating rooms both locally and across the country. On April 3 the FDA announced revisions to blood donor eligibility requirements to ensure sufficient and sustainable blood inventories. To maximize blood supplies during these challenging times, the announced changes affect general blood donation as well as some donors who had been previously deferred. For more information about donor eligibility, visit redcrossblood.org.
All participating donors will receive a $10 Bingo voucher from Independent Fire Company, a free medium Blizzard from Dairy Queen and half price pepperoni rolls from A Step in Time Bakery. The Jefferson County Community Blood Drive is being sponsored by Jefferson Medical Center, American Public University System, theBridge Community Church, Dairy Queen, HealthNet AeroMedical Services, Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, Independent Fire Company, Potomac Blast Softball Team, The City of Ranson and Step in Time Bakery