Often during the summer months, local residents are soaking in the sun, working hard, on vacation, traveling to sporting events, or simply relaxing in the air conditioning at home. One way to make a real difference this summer is to donate blood for neighbors in need.

“Summer is typically the most critical time that blood donations are needed,” said Matt Scott, Director of Marketing at WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital. “We’re trying to do our part for blood donations because they are statistically at an all-time low across the country. ”

In partnership with the Rotary Club of Buckhannon-Upshur, WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital welcomes the local community to reserve a donation slot on Friday, August 15, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at The Event Center on Brushy Fork in Buckhannon.

Blood Drive events like this are held seasonally to ensure adequate access to blood needed for traumas, surgical needs, patients undergoing cancer treatments and other medical procedures that require blood to save someone’s life.

According to the American Red Cross website, “Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood and/or platelets.” It is important to note that blood and platelets cannot be manufactured — volunteer donors are the one and only source for blood donations, with the power for one donor to save more than one life.

As part of a national promotion to increase blood donations across the United States, Vitalant will offer all blood donors on Aug. 15 a $10 gas card and enter their name to win one of three $10,000 gas cards, courtesy of Vitalant. Terms and conditions do apply.

Vitalant is the official blood supplier for WVU St. Joseph’s Hospital and United Hospital Center in Bridgeport.

Schedule your donation time online and save a life here. Search by location or schedule your appointment by calling (877) 25-VITAL (877-258-4825).