Mount Vernon library hosts urgent blood drive

The Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County is partnering with the American Red Cross Blood Services to host a community blood drive on Friday, March 6, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the library, located at 201 N. Mulberry St., Mount Vernon, OH 43050.

This blood drive comes at a crucial time, as the American Red Cross reports a nationwide blood shortage. Hospitals across Ohio and the country are experiencing low supplies, creating an urgent need for donors to help maintain life-saving transfusions for patients undergoing surgeries, cancer treatments, trauma care, and chronic illness management. Every donation has the potential to save multiple lives and directly support neighbors in need.

To encourage participation during this urgent time, the Red Cross is offering a $15 Amazon gift card by email to donors who give blood in March, and successful donors will also receive A1C testing, which provides insight into blood sugar levels. These incentives, combined with the opportunity to address a critical shortage, make this a particularly meaningful opportunity for community members to get involved.

Appointments are encouraged to ensure a smooth donation process, and donors can schedule their time at rcblood.org/March. Walk-ins are welcome, but scheduling in advance helps reduce wait times and maximize the number of donors who can give during this critical shortage.

Health officials remind potential donors to drink plenty of water, eat a healthy meal beforehand, and bring a valid ID. Basic eligibility requirements include being in good general health and at least 17 years old (16 in Ohio with parental consent).

With the Red Cross facing a shortage that could affect patient care in hospitals across the state, this event provides a vital opportunity for the Mount Vernon community to make a difference. Volunteers from the library and Red Cross will guide donors through a safe, comfortable donation process, making it easy to respond to this urgent need.

For more information, to schedule an appointment, or to learn about donor eligibility, visit rcblood.org/March. Mark your calendars for March 6, and join the Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County in addressing the critical blood shortage, because every donation truly saves lives.