Western Ky. Regional Blood Center SOS blood drive event starts Tuesday

The Western Kentucky Regional Blood Center is putting out the call for blood donations, saying they are reaching critical need for donors.

Summer months typically call for more use of donated blood, and this year is more so than ever as people return to a life without pandemic restrictions. Director Robbin Shivley says they are getting hit extra hard this year for those who are in need of blood for one reason or another.

She says when they accept your donation, it’s barely finishing the required processing procedures before it’s being sent for use, so they’re really needing the help.

The Save Our Summer blood drive event kicks off Tuesday at the facility located at 1902 South Virginia Street in Hopkinsville and goes the whole week.  Participants will have a chance to win prizes and will each receive a t-shirt.

Donors must be at least 17 years old—16 year olds can give with parental permission—weigh at least 115 pounds and wait 56 days between donations.

Medications must be checked with staff before donating. All donors must show a photo ID and are advised to eat well before and after giving. For more information, call the center at (270) 885-0728.