(PADUCAH, Ky.)-The American Red Cross is calling on residents across western Kentucky and southern Illinois to roll up their sleeves this month, with dozens of local blood drives scheduled through April 30 and incentives available for those who act soon.
The organization is emphasizing that patient need for blood doesn’t pause for the season. Donors of all blood types — both longtime contributors and first-timers — are encouraged to make an appointment to help ensure medical centers stay stocked in the weeks ahead.
April is National Volunteer Month, and the Red Cross is using the occasion to spotlight not just blood donors but also the volunteers who staff donation centers and community drives. “There is no substitute for blood,” the organization noted in its announcement, underscoring that volunteer donors remain the backbone of patient care.
Incentives on the table
Timing matters for those who want a little extra reward for giving. Donors who come in by April 12 will receive an exclusive Red Cross x Life is Good® T-shirt, while supplies last. Anyone who gives between April 13 and 30 will get a $15 e-gift card redeemable at a choice of merchants.
Where to give locally
Murray-area residents have two upcoming opportunities close to home. Murray First United Methodist Church, at 503 Maple St., will host a drive on April 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. — the last day to qualify for the free T-shirt. Pike House, at 103 N. 16th St., will hold a drive on April 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
For those willing to travel, the Paducah Blood Donation Center at 4635 Falconcrest Drive offers the most consistent access, with appointments available nearly every day through the end of the month.
Benton and Calvert City dates:
- Benton Banking Center, 221 W. 5th St., Benton — April 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Christian Fellowship School, 1343 US-68, Benton — April 20, 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- First Christian Church, 2515 S. Main St., Benton — April 20, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
- Calvert City Church of Christ, 4625 US Highway 62, Calvert City — April 23, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- North Marshall Middle School, 3110 Highway 95, Calvert City — April 29, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Other regional drives include stops at Calvary Baptist Church in Princeton (April 9), Lone Oak Church of Christ in Paducah (April 15), and Lyon County High School in Eddyville (April 22), among many others spanning both sides of the Kentucky-Illinois border.
How to sign up
Appointments can be made at RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS. Donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, and be in generally good health. A blood donor card, driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in.
