The annual MASH Blood Drive will be held with the Community Blood Center from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 4. The drive will be held at Kitchenette Park in Merrill, across from T.B. Scott Library.

Last year over 290 people came to the MASH-themed blood drive, and organizers are hoping for an even greater turnout this year. Donors can enjoy a complimentary brat fry and enter their names in a raffle to win prizes.

“Blood donations usually decrease in the summer, when school is out and people take summer vacations. A successful MASH Blood Drive will provide a great boost to the local blood supply,” said Jan Hadsell, Donor Recruitment Specialist at the blood center. “It’s also a fun time! Blood donation can be such a serious topic, and this is a great way to remind ourselves that a gift of blood can be the gift of life- which is something to celebrate!”

Donation appointments are highly recommended. People may schedule an appointment by calling the Community Blood Center at (800)280-4102 or going to www.save3lives.org. Scheduling an appointment in advance reduces waiting time, keeping the total time required for a donation to less than an hour. Walk-in donors are always welcome.

“For decades, we’ve worked to ensure that Merrill residents have a safe, ample blood supply. And we couldn’t have done it without the support of the community. We’re very grateful for everyone who gives blood,” added Hadsell.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental permission), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in general good health, and bring a photo ID. Donors are encouraged to eat a regular meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to donating.

The non-profit Northwoods Community Blood Center is committed to providing a steady blood supply for local hospitals, including Ministry Good Samaritan Health Center. The Northwoods Community Blood Center has a donor center in Arbor Vitae and holds around 20 blood drives each month.