Give blood, win big!

The perfect gift this season can be found without stepping into a mall, placing an order online or spending a dime. Give the gift of life this holiday season by donating blood through the American Red Cross.

All blood and platelet donors in December will be entered into a daily raffle to win a $100 Visa gift card. The raffle is available to presenting donors and/or residents within the North Central Blood Service region December 1 through 31 (excluding December 25). Winners will be contacted after the promotion period ends.

Following are the upcoming blood donation opportunities.

• December 14, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Alexandria Armory, 311 Broadway in Alexandria.

• December 21, 1 to 7 p.m. at the Viking Plaza, 3015 Highway 29 South in Alexandria.

To donate blood call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed.

A blood donor card or driver’s license, or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years old, weight at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 and younger have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Tags: red cross, life, health, blood, donation