AHOSKIE – ‘Tis the season for giving…..blood.

The Mid-Atlantic Region of the American Red Cross is urging people to give the gift of life this holiday season by giving blood.

Locally, that chance to make a life-saving donation will come during an American Red Cross Blood Drive scheduled for 12 noon until 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 19 at the Fellowship Hall at Ahoskie United Methodist Church. This local blood drive is sponsored by Hertford County Farm Bureau.

“As the holidays approach, our blood supply is beginning to become dangerously low,” said Georgia Boone Donaldson, Senior Account Manager for the Red Cross Mid-Atlantic Region. “We encourage citizens in the Ahoskie community to donate blood on Dec. 19.”

Blood donors on that date will not only receive the satisfaction of giving the gift of life, they will receive a gift in return. Every donor between Dec. 17-31 will receive a limited edition long-sleeved t-shirt. They will also be eligible to register for a cruise for two to the Caribbean.

According to Donaldson, the Red Cross is constantly faced with the challenge of meeting the demand for life-saving blood products. That challenge becomes even greater when, during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, many people simply forget about the need for blood.

“The local Red Cross wants to ensure that there is a safe and adequate supply at all times and for any situation,” Donaldson said. “After all, you never know when you or someone you love will need blood. Please, this holiday season, give the gift that will last a lifetime…give blood.”

All blood types are welcome. Healthy individuals who are at least 17 years of age and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds are invited to give blood.

For more information, call 1-800-GIVE LIFE or visit online at www.weneedblood.org.