LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky Blood Center has a special gift for donors who give the gift of life this holiday season: movie tickets are available for donors at all eight KBC donor centers Dec. 17–31.

A trip to the theater for two will be covered by KBC for donors who give the blood supply a much-needed boost in the coming weeks. An estimated 200 donations have been lost in recent days from cancellations and closures due to inclement weather. Additionally, the weather, seasonal illnesses and a busy holiday season have led to low donor turnout in recent weeks.

The early start of winter disruptions has taken a toll on KBC’s blood supply that provides lifesaving products to more than 70 hospitals in Kentucky. All blood types are needed, but KBC has critical inventory of O-, O+ and A- blood. A critical supply means KBC has less than a half day of blood products to supply local hospitals across Central and Eastern Kentucky.

For Kentuckians hoping to make a local impact during “giving” season, blood donation is easy and efficient. A whole blood donation takes less than an hour from registration to refreshment and can save up to three lives. Plus, with a low supply currently, donors will have an immediate impact on local patients in need as the need for blood doesn’t take a vacation for the holidays.

Most donor centers are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. KBC will be closed Christmas Day but open on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. KBC has eight donor centers in six cities (Lexington, Louisville, Corbin, Frankfort, Pikeville and Somerset).

Movie tickets will be provided to a local theater determined by the location of the donor center.

One in four people will need a blood transfusion in their lifetime, and as the largest FDA-license nonprofit blood bank in Kentucky, KBC ensures blood is available for a wide range of treatments at local hospitals. KBC is the exclusive blood provider for UK HealthCare, Baptist Health, CHI Saint Joseph, Appalachian Regional Healthcare and more.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health, show a photo I.D. and meet additional requirements. Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are welcome.