SAN BERNARDINO – January is National Blood Donor Month, and LifeStream Blood Bank is encouraging local residents to help save lives by donating blood throughout the month.

Typically, January is one of the most challenging months of the year to collect sufficient amounts blood to meet the needs of local communities. Dipping temperatures and inclement weather can disrupt collection efforts, and the expected cold and flu season can keep many potential blood donors on the sidelines.

Upcoming LifeStream promotions include a reusable bag including inscription of an inspirational quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for donors at all LifeStream locations January 17-21; and automatic entry into a sweepstakes drawing for a chance to win a pair of Lakers-Pelicans for donors at all locations Jan. 25-Feb. 18.

LifeStream has fixed-site centers in San Bernardino, Riverside, Ontario, Victorville, Murrieta and La Quinta. All are open daily; for hours, locations and to set an appointment, call 800-879-4484 or visit LStream.org.

In addition, for donor’s convenience a series of community blood drives will be held in January at numerous locations, including:

  • Lowe’s, 5201 Ramon Road, Palm Springs, Wednesday, January 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donors receive a $5 Lowe’s gift card. Donors also receive free cholesterol screening and Gift of Life Donor Loyalty points that may be redeemed in the online donor store at LStream.org.
  • Woodhaven Country Club, 41555 Woodhaven Drive E., Palm Desert, Wednesday, Jan. 9 from  11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donors receive a free ticket, valid January 17 or 20, to the 60th Anniversary Desert Classic at PGA West La Quinta. Donors also receive free cholesterol screening and Gift of Life Donor Loyalty points that may be redeemed in the online donor store at LStream.org.
  • Westin Mission Hills, 71333 Dinah Shore Drive, Rancho Mirage, Thursday, Jan. 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donors receive a free ticket, valid January 17 or 20, to the 60th Anniversary Desert Classic at PGA West La Quinta. Donors also receive free cholesterol screening and Gift of Life Donor Loyalty points that may be redeemed in the online donor store at LStream.org.
  • St. Theresa Parish, 2800 E. Ramon Road, Palm Springs, Sunday, Jan. 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. This drive is hosted by the Knights of Columbus. Donors receive a free ticket, valid January 17 or 20, to the 60th Anniversary Desert Classic at PGA West La Quinta. Donors also receive free cholesterol screening and Gift of Life Donor Loyalty points that may be redeemed in the online donor store at LStream.org.

Donors must be at least 15 years of age (those 17 years and under require a signed parental consent form; the form is available at all drive sites and at LStream.org), feel well, present photo ID, and weigh at least 110 pounds.

LifeStream supplies blood products and services to more than 80 Southern California hospitals. For more information and to locate nearby mobile blood drives, call 800-879-4484 or go to LStream.org.o

Image Sources

  • blood donor: File photo