Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The American Red Cross encourages Orange Beach residents to roll up their sleeves and donate blood at an upcoming community drive. The event will be held in the training room of the Orange Beach Adult Fitness Center, providing a convenient spot for local donors. Organizers emphasize that blood donations remain crucial for hospital patients during emergencies, surgeries, and ongoing treatments. Community members are urged to participate and help ensure local blood supplies stay adequately stocked.

The blood drive is scheduled for Friday, March 13, and will be held from 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. During that time, donors can visit the fitness center to give blood and support patients across the region. The event is open to both regular donors and first-time participants. 

The Adult Fitness Center is located at 4847 Wilson Blvd in Orange Beach, offering convenient access for residents across the city. Walk-ins are welcome at the drive, but organizers note that those with appointments will be prioritized. This helps reduce wait times and allows staff to manage a steady flow of donors. 

Anyone interested in scheduling a donation appointment can do so online through the Red Cross website or by phone. Donors can visit the Red Cross blood donation page and search using the Orange Beach zip code or sponsor information to find a drive. They can also call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to speak with a representative and arrange an appointment. 

To thank people for taking the time to donate, the Red Cross is offering a special incentive at this drive. Those who successfully donate blood will receive a $15 gift card by email after their appointment is complete. Additionally, donors will receive free A1C blood sugar testing, offering helpful health information. Organizers hope these benefits, along with the chance to help save lives, will encourage a strong turnout from the Orange Beach community.