KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — In honor of Veterans Day, Versiti Blood Center of Michigan is encouraging eligible citizens to donate blood to help save lives.
According to an official press release, each location will be accepting scheduled appointments and walk-ins on Veterans Day.
“We salute our everyday blood donor heroes for saving lives and we salute our military veterans for their service and sacrifices made,” said Dawn Kaiser, area vice president of Versiti Blood Center of Michigan. “Donating blood is a small gesture to honor those to whom we owe so much.”
There are eight locations available in Michigan. In the Kalamazoo area, the closest outlet is located at 524 E. Milham Ave. in Portage.
Other Western Michigan locations are as follows:
- Grand Rapids: 1036 Fuller NE
- Grandville: 3140 Wilson SW
- St. Joseph: 2710 Cleveland Ave.
The press release also notes that Versiti Blood Center of Michigan must collect at least 560 units of blood each day to meet the needs of its nearly 80 hospital partners across the state.
Donating blood takes about an hour. Anyone age 17 or older in good health who meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to give. Parental consent is required for donors age 16 to give. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes their birth date.
Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are welcome. To schedule an appointment to donate blood, call 1-866-642-5663 or visit Versiti online.
