Lifesaving Donations Meet Cannabis Culture to Boost Local Blood Supply
The Rock River Valley Blood Center (RRVBC) and Spark’d Dispensary are hosting their first-ever Blood for Bud drive on Friday, Aug. 22, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Spark’d Dispensary, 9705 Prairie Ridge Road, Richmond, Ill.
The event, which is co-sponsored by OGEEZ, invites the community to roll up their sleeves and help boost the area’s blood supply. Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood, especially during the summer months when donations drop to a critical low.
To thank donors for their lifesaving contributions, each will receive one-eighth of flower from Spark’d and edibles from OGEEZ. Whether a first-time donor or a seasoned supporter, every donation has the potential to help save up to three lives in one of the 14 hospitals served by RRVBC.
“We’re excited to partner with Spark’d for an event that not only supports a critical community need but also clears up misconceptions about who can donate,” said Lisa Entrikin, CEO of the Rock River Valley Blood Center. “Cannabis use does not disqualify you from donating blood, and this drive is a perfect way to raise awareness while saving lives.”
Blood Donation Eligibility Facts
- Donors must be at least 21 years old to receive the donation giveaways and must be in good general health and feeling well at the time of donation.
- Cannabis use does not affect the ability to donate blood, as long as individuals are not impaired during donation.
- THC is not present in donated blood in a way that affects recipients.
Appointments are encouraged to reduce wait time but are not required. To schedule a donation, visit rrvbc.org or call 815-965-8751. Walk-ins are welcome.