Community encouraged to donate December 20-22

December 8, 2022 (Hereford, TX) – Deaf Smith County Hospital District is hosting a community blood drive December 22 from noon to 5 p.m. at the hospital (540 W. 15^th Street, Hereford) in partnership with the Coffee Memorial Blood Center.

The blood center is also hosting two other blood drives in Hereford at the Hereford Civic Center on December 20 and 21 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

“With fewer people able to donate because of holiday travel and seasonal illnesses, it’s even more critical that those who can donate, do,” said Jeff Barnhart, CEO, Deaf Smith County Hospital District. “Helping our family, friends, and neighbors by donating blood is the best gift we can give this holiday season.”

Approximately 5 million patients need blood each year. A single blood donation has the potential to save three lives in the event a patient needs a blood transfusion because of surgery, an accident or injury, or a serious condition like leukemia or kidney disease that can cause anemia.

Donors must be 17 years of age or older. Sixteen-year-olds may donate with a permission slip signed by a parent or legal guardian. All donors must present photo ID. Pregnant women are not eligible to donate blood. The process takes about an hour, including registration, a brief medical screening, blood collection, and refreshments following the collection.