Versiti Blood Center says there is an urgent need for blood and is asking the public to donate at blood drives this month and next at Franciscan Health hospitals in Crown Point and Michigan City and Franciscan Health Fitness Centers in Schererville.
A blood drive at Franciscan Health Crown Point is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 23. The location is Suite C and D in the Marion Education Center at the hospital, 1201 S. Main St.
Franciscan Health Fitness Centers, at 221 U.S. Highway 41 in Schererville, will host blood drives from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 28, and from 3 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 26.
Blood drives are also scheduled at Franciscan Health Michigan City, 3500 Franciscan Way, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 20, and 2 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 21. The location is the Blessed Maria Theresia Bonzel Community Room.
Donors must bring photo identification and masks are required. Donors should also eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating. Appointments are encouraged and can be scheduled by going online at versiti.org/IL or by calling 1-800-7TO-Give (1-800-786-4483) and choosing your preferred time. Walk-ins are also welcome as the schedule and social distancing allow.