Vitalant is hosting a holiday blood drive to ensure blood is available for patients during the holiday season.
The 'Season of Awe' holiday blood drive is asking for volunteers from now until January 5 to give blood and help bolster the blood supply.
Vitalant says that this time of year blood donations decline by about 20 percent despite the increased blood usage. That increase is mostly due to travel and surgeries.
Those wanting to give blood this holiday season can do so at the Vitalant Donation Center located on Bertrand Drive in Lafayette. Mobile units will also be out around Acadiana.
Donors during the blood drive will receive a long-sleeve T-shirt. Each day, one donor will be chosen to receive a $500 Amazon gift card.
All blood types are needed. Vitalant says O and platelet donations are especially needed.
To learn more about Vitalant and giving blood, visit vitalant.org/seasonofawe.