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COLUMBUS–The American Red Cross urges donors of all blood types to come out to the 36th annual Operation Blood Drive on Thursday, June 29, at Steps to HOPE in Columbus. The blood drive will take place from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

There will be additional blood donation opportunities in Hendersonville, Waynesville and Asheville. 

“Generous blood donors are critical to ensuring lifesaving care is available the moment patients need it,” said Executive Director of the Western North Carolina Chapter Mariana Vimbela. “It’s important to have blood products on the shelves when every second counts.”. 

Right now, there is a great need for donations to address a recent drop in appointments that could lead to fewer transfusions for patients in the weeks ahead. Type-O blood donors are especially needed to ensure a strong blood supply. Appointments can be made by downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS. 

All presenting blood donors will receive an Operation Blood Drive T-shirt while supplies last and will be entered into a raffle to win a 4-pack of Cedar Fair tickets. There will also be food donated by local restaurants. 

For more information, visit redcrossblood.org.