Kenosha residents will have an opportunity to donate blood next month when the American Red Cross holds a blood drive at VFW Post 1865.

The drive is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 7, from 1 to 6 p.m. at the post, 6618 39th Ave. The event is included in the Wisconsin blood donation schedule published by FOX6 Milwaukee and a Nov. 9 announcement from the American Red Cross.

The Red Cross is encouraging eligible donors of all blood types to make appointments, with particular emphasis on people with type O blood, according to the organization.

Donors can schedule an appointment at RedCrossBlood.org, through the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Holiday campaign encourages blood donations

The Kenosha drive is part of a broader effort by the Red Cross to encourage donations during the holiday season, when busy schedules can make it harder for regular donors to keep appointments.

The organization has partnered with Wheel of Fortune on a promotion for people who donate blood, platelets or plasma between Nov. 23 and Dec. 6. Donors during that period will receive a limited-edition Red Cross and Wheel of Fortuneoversized mug, while supplies last, and will automatically be entered for a chance to win a three-night trip for two to Los Angeles that includes admission to a Wheel of Fortune taping.

The promotion ends Dec. 6, the day before the Kenosha drive. The mug offer therefore does not apply to donations made at the Dec. 7 event. The sweepstakes also allows eligible people to enter without making a donation, according to the official Red Cross promotion rules.

How to prepare to donate

The Red Cross recommends that donors get a good night's sleep, eat a healthy meal that includes iron-rich foods and drink an additional 16 ounces of water before donating.

Donors should bring a blood donor card, driver's license or two other forms of identification. People who are at least 17 years old in most states, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate, although additional requirements can apply.

The Red Cross provides more information about eligibility and donation preparation on its blood donation website.

Kenosha blood drive

  • When: Monday, Dec. 7, 1–6 p.m.
  • Where: VFW Post 1865, 6618 39th Ave., Kenosha
  • Appointments: RedCrossBlood.org, the Red Cross Blood Donor App or 1-800-RED CROSS