November 14, 2012 ─ Jackson County DHS, Altus High School and Oklahoma Blood Institute (OBI) are partnering for these upcoming blood drives to help save the lives of those in area hospitals. These drives will occur:

Tuesday, Nov. 27

• 8 a.m. to noon, Jackson County DHS, 201 S. Main Street

Thursday, Nov. 29

• 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Altus High School, 400 N. Park Lane

One blood donation can save as many as three lives. Yet, it typically takes only an hour to give blood. This brief act of community service can make a major, life-saving difference.

People 16 years and older* are usually able to give. During November, each blood donor receives the choice of an OSU or OU Bedlam blood donor T-shirt, health screenings and Donor Rewards Points, redeemable at OBI’s online store.

If donors prefer, they can forgo the T-shirts to support the Global Blood Fund. Oklahoma Blood Institute will redirect funds for the shirts to this charity assisting blood centers in developing countries.

Donors with Oklahoma Blood Institute provide every drop of blood needed by patients in more than 140 Oklahoma medical facilities including Jackson County Memorial Hospital.

Appointments are not required but can be made by calling Oklahoma Blood Institute at 877-340-8777 or visiting obi.org.

* 16 year olds must weigh at least 125 and provide signed parental permission, 17 year olds must weigh at least 125 pounds, 18+ year olds must weigh at least 110 pounds.