JOPLIN, Mo. — Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO) is encouraging community members to wrap up the year by saving lives. Donors who give blood in December at any CBCO donor center or mobile blood drive will receive a limited-edition fleece blanket, while supplies last.
As the exclusive provider of blood, platelets and plasma to more than 40 hospitals across 41 counties in the Ozarks, CBCO relies on approximately 200 donations each day to meet the needs of local patients. Every donation has the potential to save up to three lives, making every donor a vital part of someone’s healing journey. Individuals with questions about eligibility are encouraged to visit cbco.org or call 417-227-5006.
“The need for blood often increases during the winter months and holiday season,” said Michelle Teter, Media Relations Representative at CBCO. “In just one hour, you can give the most meaningful gift of the season, the gift of life. Every donation offers hope, healing and a second chance at life. Your selfless gift lingers long after the holidays and may be the reason someone gets to go home to their family.”
CBCO is encouraging all eligible donors to give blood. While all blood types are needed, there is an increased need for type O positive, O negative and A negative due to higher hospital usage and the recent Thanksgiving holiday. First-time donors and those who have not given recently are urged to schedule an appointment to help maintain a strong and steady blood supply for local patients.
Donors can give blood at any mobile blood drive or at one of four CBCO donor centers located in Joplin, Missouri; Springfield, Missouri; Bentonville, Arkansas; or Springdale, Arkansas.
Appointments are strongly encouraged to help reduce wait times. To schedule a donation, visit www.cbco.org/donate-blood or call 417-227-5006.
On behalf of local hospital patients, Community Blood Center of the Ozarks thanks blood donors from across the region for giving life to your community. CBCO wishes all donors a holiday season filled with joy, warmth, and peace.
