The Rotary Club of Greenwood will team up with Mississippi Blood Services to host the "Country Kickers vs. City Slickers" blood drive from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Thursday at the Ramada Inn on Park Avenue.
The club will be in a friendly competition with the Rotary Club of Greenville to see who can bring in the most donors, and the Greenwood club's goal is to get at least 75 people to donate blood during the event.
According to Mississippi Blood Services, blood donations normally decline during summer months even though the need for blood remains the same.
The organization provided the following statistics about blood donation:
- One out of every 10 people admitted to a hospital will need blood.
- The average transfusion requires three pints of blood.
- Sixty percent of the population is able to give blood, but only 4 percent donates.
- One donation can help save up to three lives.
"Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion," said Tony Bahou, communications and public relations manager at Mississippi Blood Services. "These aren't just numbers, these are people — mothers, fathers, sons and daughters. Taking a little of your time to donate blood may give someone a lifetime."
Radio personality Sunshine from WYMX BOB FM 99.1, will be broadcasting live from the drawing station at the Ramada Inn from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. She will be promoting various local merchants and organizations, and giving away prizes donated by these groups throughout the day.
Businesses and groups who would like to donate a prize for the blood drive may contact Frances Lavelle at 453-8563.
All donors will receive a free T-shirt while supplies last, and they will be registered for a chance to win a travel package to Gatlinburg, Tenn., Nashville, Tenn., Branson, Mo., or Atlanta.
In order to donate, individuals must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and have a valid ID.
Mississippi Blood Services offers a mini physical before each donation to ensure the donation process is safe for the donor and the recipient. It also is recommended that donors eat within four hours prior to their donation.
Participants may give blood at any time between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m., or they may call (888) 902-5663 to request a specific time to donate blood.
For more information, call (800) 817-7449 or visit www.msblood.com.
