By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

The American Red Cross is holding a “Thanks for Giving” blood drive on Nov. 22 at Senior Connection.

John McGill of American Red Cross Blood Services said the organization is trying to build up the available supply before donations decrease as people become busier with holiday activities.

All blood types are being accepted. McGill said blood type O (negative and positive) is always needed, but is not at a critical level at this time.

“The importance of the blood drive is trying to keep it that way heading into the holidays when everybody’s schedules get so busy,” McGill said.

One pint of blood can save three lives.

The blood drive will be inside the Senior Connection building from noon to 5 p.m. The blood drive is open to the community to participate. Donors can decrease their wait time by scheduling an appointment through the Red Cross website at redcrossblood.org.

McGill said donors need to make sure “they eat a good meal the day of. So, if they are coming before lunch that they eat a good breakfast, (and) that they are staying hydrated.”

The entire donation process can take up to 45 minutes, but actually giving blood only takes about 10 minutes.

“It is completely safe and it is not as painful as you might think,” McGill said.

American Red Cross Blood Services is the primary provider of blood to St. Vincent Health Systems, including St. Vincent’s Chilton. However, donated blood will go to whichever hospital in Alabama has a need.

Blood donated at the drive will go to processing centers in Birmingham or Mobile.

“We separate it out into the red blood cells, the platelets or the plasma, and depending on the need it can go out to any hospital,” McGill said.

Those who schedule an appointment online will receive and email allowing them to track their blood and find out which hospital it went to.

Senior Connection is located at 304 Park Plaza in downtown Clanton.