Starting today, an exciting challenge is happening in Jackson and Josephine Counties. As a partnership between the Southern Oregon Red Cross Chapter and the Pacific Northwest Blood Services Region, the second annual ‘Pennies for Pints’ campaign encourages people to donate blood during the first week of March (1st to 5th) or to make financial pledges based on the units of blood collected that week. This means that the campaign is benefiting two of the Red Cross’ key missions — ensuring an ample blood supply and meeting the financial needs of disaster victims.

For example, if a financial donor pledges 10 cents per unit and the Red Cross collects 300 units during the designated week, the donor would make a $30 contribution to the local Red Cross chapter to supply comfort items to victims of home fires and help prepare people for disasters. Several blood drives are planned for the Rogue Valley the week of March 1st, with some 350 units scheduled for collection.

No matter where you live in Oregon, the Red Cross always has a constant need for support. For more information or to make an appointment to give blood, please call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (1-800-448-3543) or visit www.redcrossblood.org. For information regarding the Southern Oregon Chapter, contact Marj Jamison at 541-779-3773.

Photo: US Mint