39 Step Forward at Chinook Blood Drive as Donations Remain Vital

A blood drive was held in Chinook on March 3, 2026, with 39 donors stepping forward to help meet the ongoing need for lifesaving blood.

Volunteers Judy Johnson, Roxanne Townsend, and Linda Thompson staffed the reception table and helped ensure the event ran smoothly. Door prize winners included Trish Merrill, Chuck Wasser, Lyndsay Hutton, Valerie Blackcrow, Wilma Melville and Mara Edwards.

We welcomed one first-time donor, Ryder Hofeldt. Hofeldt has helped with blood drive setup for several years and this year stepped up in a new way by donating as well.Organizers expressed sincere appreciation to everyone who donated. Blood donations are especially crucial during the winter months, when donor numbers often decline due to seasonal illness and cold weather. Despite these challenges, the need for blood remains constant year-round.

Organizers also encourage increased participation from local high school students through the Red Cord Honors Program. Eligible students must donate blood three times during their high school career with the American Red Cross. Students who are ineligible to donate due to age, weight, or medical restrictions may still qualify by volunteering at their school's blood drive or another community blood drive during their high school years.

Each school's Red Cross representative works with school advisors to track student participation and ensure eligible students are recognized prior to graduation. Qualifying students receive a red honor cord, which may be worn during graduation ceremonies with school approval.

Participation in the Red Cord Honors Program offers several benefits for students, including volunteer hours that may be used for scholarship and job applications, opportunities to gain leadership experience by helping sponsor or coordinate blood drives, and recognition for their service. Most importantly, students gain the rewarding experience of helping save lives and leading by example in their community.