Franklin County residents have opportunities to donate blood

For people looking to “give the gift of life,” there is no shortage of opportunities this month in Franklin County. 

The American Red Cross is looking for eligible blood donors to donate this month to help children kick cancer for Childhood Cancer Awareness month. Thousands of children receive treatments for cancer, and blood is a necessity during treatment.

The American Red Cross will host a blood drive Sept. 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Southern Homes in Russellville. 

LifeSouth will host a blood drive Sept. 4 at Vina High School from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and will host another drive Sept. 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Russellville Hospital. LifeSouth is the primary provider of blood at Russellville Hospital.

Anyone who signs up to donate blood through LifeSouth at the Russellville Hospital drive will receive a free T-shirt, an appetizer card from Texas Roadhouse, a free cookie dough card from Papa Murphy’s and a free meal ticket from Russellville Hospital. LifeSouth will also be giving out door prizes for those in attendance.

Appointments can be made in advance. Anyone who plans to donate blood will need to bring a photo ID. 

LifeSouth will also host a blood drive Sept. 21 during Red Bay Founders Day, at City Hall; Sept. 22 at the Piggly Wiggly in Phil Campbell from noon to 5 p.m.; and at the Cricket Wireless in Russellville Sept. 30 from noon to 7 p.m.

According to the American Red Cross, it is safe to donate blood every 56 days. Some health conditions might prevent people from donating. Before donating, workers will perform a short health screening to determine whether someone is a good fit to donate blood.