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The American Red Cross Blood Services is challenging Mid-Plains Community College to help boost the blood supply and save lives.

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To help meet the challenge, both North Platte Community College and McCook Community College are hosting Red Cross We Challenge “U” Blood Drives in January and February.

The first drive is set for 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 21, in the student lounge at NPCC’s north campus.

The second will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 28, at the new MCC Event Center.

All donors will receive a commemorative We Challenge “U” T-shirt, while supplies last. Prior to donating, donors will register, complete a brief health history screening and have their blood pressure, pulse rate, temperature and iron level checked.

Bad weather and seasonal illnesses often mean fewer blood donations during the winter months. However, the need for blood is constant, said April Oppliger of the Red Cross. Blood donations are needed for accident and burn victims, heart surgery patients, organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer or sickle cell disease.

The entire process takes about an hour, although the actual donation takes about 10 minutes. Refreshments are provided at the end of the process.

“We thank MPCC for accepting the challenge from the Red Cross to help bolster the blood supply,” said Tricia Quinn, CEO of the Midwest Blood Services Region.

To make an appointment or for more information, call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org.