The Kentucky Blood Center will host a blood drive inside MSU’s Adron Dorian University Center. Officials report the KBC has been unable to replace 100 bags since winter began.
Eric Lindsey is Director of Media and Branding at the KBC. He says this drive aims to make it more convenient for young people to donate.
“We do community drives, where we are, for instance, at the Morehead Kroger where folks can come by during that period regardless of your age and drop by and donate. If we’re talking at Morehead State, again, we're talking convenience and access. You might have a couple of hours in between class that might be easier for you to donate than hopping in your car and driving down the road,” said Lindsey.
Lindsey added the average donor profile has become more diverse.
“An encouraging sign in recent years, after the pandemic disrupted our numbers across the board with all demographics, we have seen some positive signs of younger donors showing up more and more at places like our campus drives,” said Lindsey.
The donation process typically takes less than an hour to complete. Anyone interested in donating must be at least 17 years old, or 16 with parental consent, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, and meet additional requirements.
The blood drive is from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on February 3 and 4. Donors will receive a long sleeve “I Love KY Blood Donors” shirt, and a $5 Starbucks gift card. Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are welcome. Appointments can be scheduled at kybloodcenter.org, or by calling 800-775-2522.