Blood drives are considered an essential service, and blood donations are way down due to the public’s fear of coronavirus. Blood is desperately needed; two blood drives will be held Wednesday, December 16. One will be at the Hi-Desert Star in Yucca Valley from 9 to 2; the other will be at the Hi-Desert Medical Center in Joshua Tree from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Blood donations will also be screened for COVID-19 antibodies. The test does not detect if the donor currently has COVID-19. All blood donors must wear a face mask and will undergo a COVID-19 health screening on arrival. All donors should be free of infections or illness, weigh at least 115 pounds, and not be at risk for AIDS or hepatitis. Donors will receive a free cholesterol screening and incentives. To make an appointment to donate blood, call 800-TRY-GIVING.
