The annual THON Blood Drive begins this Thursday, December 8 at the HUB and lasts through THON weekend, February 17-19, 2017. The kickoff drive will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For every blood donation, the Red Cross will donate $2 to THON; donors will be able to credit the donation to the THON organization of their choice.

Those who donate at the kickoff on Thursday will be eligible to donate again beginning February 2, doubling their total blood donation and the Red Cross’s donation to THON.

You can visit the Red Cross website for more info about donating blood, the list of blood drives, and to schedule an appointment. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Donating blood usually takes about an hour and donors must present a valid photo ID to donate.