UBS sets 5 blood drives in Crowley

United Blood Services is reminding area residents that donating blood is a patriotic act, through the shirts they are giving on July blood drives. The shirt has the words “Donate for Life” written in stars and stripes and features military-style dog tags.

“The shirt’s message has two meanings,” said local Donor Recruitment Representative Anne Swanson. “It encourages people to become a blood donor for the rest of their life and reminds people of the best reason to donate blood — to help save lives.” 

Crowley donors have several July opportunities left to donate for life, through the following community blood drives.

Wednesday, July 23: Acadia General Hospital – 3 to 7 p.m.

Thursday, July 24: Carmichaels – 8 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Friday, July 25: Walmart Crowley – 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Wednesday, July 30: Lowe’s Crowley – 3 to 5:45 p.m.

To sign up for one of these upcoming drives, go to www.bloodhero.com. Donors can also go to www.unitedbloodservices.org the day of their donation and click on the “Health History Questionnaire,” make sure to print your “Fast track donation ticket” and bring it with you on the bus to save time, as well as lives. This allows donors to complete the interview portion of their donation on-line.

Donors can also fill out their “Health History Questionnaire” from their phone or tablet while they wait (not compatible with all devices).

Volunteer blood donors must be at least 16 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. Additional height/weight requirements apply to donors 22 and younger, and donors who are 16 years of age must have signed permission from a parent or guardian.

Donors receive a free cholesterol test. A photo ID is required to donate. For more information, call 337-739-4978.