“It’s Time to Give”: Anoka County Hosts Final Blood Drive of 2025 on December 18

As 2025 nears its close, Anoka County is offering residents one final opportunity to make a life-saving difference. In partnership with the American Red Cross, the county will host its last blood drive of the year on Thursday, December 18, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Anoka County Government Center (Room 710, 2100 3rd Ave. N., Anoka).

A Critical Time for Blood Donations

The end of the year is one of the most challenging periods for maintaining stable blood supplies. Holiday travel, winter weather, and seasonal illnesses often reduce donor turnout just as medical needs continue—ranging from emergency trauma care to surgeries, cancer treatments, and chronic blood disorders.

Whole blood, the primary focus of this drive, remains the most versatile and widely used donation type. A single whole blood donation can potentially help up to three patients, as its components—red cells, platelets, and plasma—can be separated and used for different medical needs. Eligible donors may give whole blood every 56 days, up to six times a year.

What Donors Can Expect

The full donation experience typically takes about one hour, although the actual blood draw lasts only 8–10 minutes. The process includes:

• Registration: Check-in and photo ID verification
• Mini-physical: Temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and hemoglobin screening
• Donation: A comfortable, seated or reclined 8–10-minute draw
• Recovery: Complimentary snacks and a short rest period before departure

To streamline the visit, donors are encouraged to complete RapidPass® on the day of the appointment at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or via the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Scheduling an Appointment

While walk-ins may be accepted, appointments are strongly recommended, especially as this final drive of 2025 is expected to fill quickly.

To reserve a time:

1. Visit RedCrossBlood.org
2. Enter “Anoka County” in the Sponsor Code field
3. Select the December 18 event and choose an available time slot

For those unable to find the drive immediately, ensure that the date filter includes December 2025.

Event Details

• Date: Thursday, December 18, 2025
• Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Location: Anoka County Government Center, Room 710
• Address: 2100 3rd Ave. N., Anoka, MN 55303
• To Schedule: Visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS

A Last Chance to Make a 2025 Impact

Whether you are a first-time donor or a returning supporter, this year-end blood drive offers a meaningful way to support local hospitals and patients during the winter season. Anoka County residents are encouraged to book an appointment, roll up a sleeve, and help save lives.

MinneapoliMedia