Laughlin to hold blood drive

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Blake Mize
  • 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs
LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  Laughlin members will soon have the opportunity to contribute to a life-saving effort.

The South Texas Blood and Tissue Center will host a blood drive at Laughlin's wing chapel June 30 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

"The goal is to be the largest blood drive in South Texas," said Capt. Shawn Chaney, event organizer from the 84th Flying Training Squadron. "In order to accomplish this we need to collect 231 or more units, but our current goal is 500 units."

The Laughlin squadron whose members donate the most will win a $50 gift certificate to a local restaurant.

"Each summer, we lose 18 percent of our donor base while the need for blood is steady," said Aleida Nichols, STBTC community relations specialist. "The efforts of the 47th Flying Training Wing make a huge impact on the South Texas blood supply as we are in dire need of blood donations this time of year."

Anyone who is 16 years old, weighs 120 pounds and has parental consent or is 17 years old and weighs 110 pounds may donate blood if they are in good general health. Identification, such as a driver's license or Department of Defense identification card, is required.

Each donor will be entered into a drawing and will have the opportunity to win prizes, like a truck or gas grill.

For more information, visit www.southtexasblood.org.