CITIZEN STAFF REPORT

INEZ — Residents of Martin County have the opportunity to contribute to the summer blood supply by donating blood Monday, July 1.

The Kentucky Blood Center’s mobile blood drive is scheduled to take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the gymnasium at the Collier Center.

All donors will receive a limited-edition “Donor Vibes” T-shirt, available while supplies last, as a token of appreciation.

The Kentucky Blood Center emphasized the importance of these donations, noting that the blood collected will save the lives of patients undergoing surgeries, battling diseases like cancer, suffering from traumas, undergoing organ transplants or facing premature births, among other medical needs.

To donate blood, individuals must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, be in generally good health, and present a photo ID. Additional requirements apply, and 16-year-old donors must have a signed parental permission slip, available at kybloodcenter.org.

While appointments are preferred, walk-ins are also welcome. To schedule a donation, visit kybloodcenter.org  or call 800-775-2522.