Blood is perishable and must be constantly replenished. According to the American Red Cross, one in seven patients entering a hospital needs a blood transfusion.

In partnership with Vitalant Blood Center, VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System is hosting a series of blood drives. This is part of a nationwide effort by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to address the on-going need for blood.

Two Valley VA clinics will hold blood drives. The McAllen VA Outpatient Clinic will hold their blood drive on Friday, December 13 from 9 a. m. to 1 p.m. The clinic is located at 901 E. Hackberry Ave. On Tuesday, January 14, the Harlingen VA Outpatient Clinic will hold a blood drive from 9 a.m. to noon. The clinic is located at 2106 Treasure Hills Blvd.

“We are a proud member of the Rio Grande Valley community and are doing our part to meet the constant need for blood and blood products.” said Public Affairs Officer Hugo Martinez. “We ask Veterans, family members, and all members of the community make the time to donate blood.”
ID is required. Scheduling an appointment is recommended. Walk-in donations will be accepted.

For more information or to register, visit https://donors.vitalant.org/dwp/portal/dwa. For future events, check https://www.va.gov/texas-valley-health-care/events