January is Volunteer Blood Donor Month, a time when blood supplies are typically low but the need is high due to holiday travel and winter weather hazards. Healthy adults are encouraged to help replenish local blood supplies by donating blood on Friday, January 15, noon - 4 p.m., at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall), 100 North Main Street, O’Fallon, Missouri 63366. The collection is sponsored by the City of O’Fallon and Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center, and donations will be used in local hospitals.

“This year, make a New Year’s resolution to benefit others by becoming a volunteer blood donor,” said Kathy Halstead, O’Fallon’s Manager of Volunteer Services. “A single whole-blood donation can help save the lives of up to three people. And platelet or double-red blood cell donations are especially important to cancer and surgical patients, and people with chronic blood disorders.”

“Walk-ins for whole blood donations are always welcome, but appointments may minimize waiting time,” said Halsted. “Additionally, donors who pre-register for platelets and double-red cell donations will have a spot reserved for them in the pheresis donation area, which allows donors to comfortably give two to five times as many blood components as whole blood donations.”

Donors must show a photo I.D. and are encouraged to eat a good meal within four hours prior to donating. Refreshments will be served immediately after donations.

For an appointment, contact Volunteer Services at (636) 379-5507