Donate blood August 19 or August 20 with Community Blood Center of the Ozarks

The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO), the sole supplier of blood, platelets and plasma to more than 40 area hospitals, is encouraging community members to give blood at an upcoming blood drive on Wednesday, August 19, or Thursday, August 20.

The drive offers a simple way for residents to make a lifesaving impact close to home.

Donors will receive a premium velour beach towel and can enter for a chance to win a $10,000 dream vacation to the destination of their choice.

Branson area residents will have the opportunity to donate at one of the following locations:

Christian Action Ministries, Lobby, 2400 State Hwy 165, Branson

·       Wednesday, August 19 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

·       CBCO will donate $10 to Christian Action Ministries Food Pantry for each successful blood donation.

Branson Community Blood Drive: Branson/Lakes Area Chamber/CVB

·       Thursday, August 20 – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

·       Bloodmobile in parking lot, 4100 Gretna Rd., Branson

“As temperatures rise, summer can become a challenging time for the blood supply, as fewer donations and increased hospital need can strain the local blood supply,” said Michelle Teter, Media Relations Representative for Community Blood Center of the Ozarks. “Donating at the upcoming blood drive is a simple way to help ensure lifesaving blood is available for patients in your community when it is needed.”

Photo identification is required. Please eat well and drink plenty of fluids prior to donating. Donors must be at least 16 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health and may not have given blood in the past 56 days. To help avoid wait times, appointments are strongly encouraged. Donors can find out more information and schedule an appointment at www.cbco.org/vacation or by calling 417-227-5006.