BLANCHESTER – Make it your New Year’s resolution to donate at the Blanchester community blood drive Wednesday, Dec. 30 from 3-7 p.m. at the Blanchester Church of Christ, 911 Cherry St.

All registered donors get free testing for COVID-19 antibodies, the “Holiday Hero” face mask, and the long-sleeve “Hometown Hero – Give Local, Save Local” t-shirt. Donors must make an appointment at www.DonorTime.com or by calling (937) 461-3220.

CBC donors are “Hometown Heroes” because their donation stays in the CBC region, supplies CBC’s partner hospitals, and helps save the lives of their neighbors.

The traditional challenges of the holidays season and the arrival of winter are far greater this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The surge in coronavirus cases has resulted in multiple businesses and high school blood drive cancellations. Blood drives that have remained on schedule are operating at reduced capacity.

The rise in coronavirus hospitalizations has created peak demand for COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma for the immediate treatment of critically ill patients. All registered CCP donors receive Kroger $25 gift card and the “COVID-19 Crisis Warrior” t-shirt.

First-time convalescent plasma donors must have proof of positive test and should register at www.GivingBlood.org or call 937-461-3220.